Caregiving takes many forms. You might decide to work with a paid professional to provide hands-on care because of your work schedule in a neighboring state of your elderly parent. Another person may need to pay for caregiving assistance due to living across the country. No matter what, long-distance caregivers might be less involved in daily decisions, but there is plenty they can do. Here are five ways to care for your aging loved one from a distance

1. Aim to Make the Lives of In-Person Caregivers Easier

No matter who the in-person caregivers are, it’s important to work together with them rather than in opposition. Undermining them can happen very easily because you live so far away and don’t see the realities of the situation up close every day.

Ask the in-person caregivers what they want from you, whether it helps with childcare expenses, financial assistance, paperwork organization, making medical appointments, finding additional in-person caregivers, or something else. It is not always realistic to be able to meet their wishes, but open conversations about what everyone needs are great starting places.

2. Learn as Much as You Can About Your Loved One’s Situation

Whether your loved one is a senior, has disabilities, or both, learn as much as you can from the home health care in Doylestown, PA. That includes the following:

  • Understanding the intricacies of aging, the illness, or the disability
  • Researching supports in the area
  • Knowing about medications and treatments
  • Having a good idea about your loved one’s prognosis and expectations

 

3. Stay in Touch With Your Loved One

Companionship can make a big difference to a loved one’s morale. Try to stay in touch regularly, whether it is through phone calls, video chats, or even handwritten letters. Regular contact also helps you keep tabs on your loved one’s health and state of mind. It is a good idea to check in with in-person caregivers, doctors, social workers, nursing home staff, or others with some regularity.

4. Consider Certain Factors if You Visit in Person

Some long-distance caregivers cannot visit in person, but if you do, it helps to keep a few things in mind. For example, plan the logistics of the visit with in-person caregivers. The goal is for everyone to be less stressed during their visit. Ask if there are any caregiving responsibilities you can do in person. Also, make time for fun things with your loved ones and try to keep outside distractions to a minimum.

5. Organize Paperwork

Organize and keep information such as medical and social services contact information, medication lists, financial information, and the like in a central place. Give access to those who need it, although be discreet about Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and similar things. There is a lot of potential paperwork in areas such as estate planning, home ownership, finances, Medicare, Medicaid, community resources, diagnoses, legal affairs, and more.

Contact a Home Care Agency

Are you interested in working with one of the best home care agencies near Philadelphia? Get in touch with Victory Home Care today. We can work with you in person and long distance.