In today’s mobile society, adult children often live far from their aging parents, complicating the provision of their daily needs, especially in the face of illness or chronic conditions. However, assembling a long-distance care team can ensure your loved one’s well-being and provide peace of mind. Below are strategies for creating a dependable team that prioritizes the best interests of the senior team.
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Engage with the senior to identify how you can offer optimal support:
- Understand their daily needs and challenges.
- Inquire about their routine appointments (e.g., hair salon, doctor) requiring transportation.
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Consult the senior’s physician:
- With written consent or as the health care proxy, request health updates from the physician. Seniors may conceal health issues, fearing loss of independence, making it crucial to know their health status for appropriate care.
- Without consent or proxy status, privacy laws prevent information sharing, but the physician might advise on suitable support types.
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Coordinate with the senior’s social circle:
- Explore creating a support schedule.
- Consider if a neighbor’s child could assist with chores or if a nearby sibling could help with grocery shopping.
- Encourage neighbors and family to check on the senior, especially in extreme weather, and share your contact details for accessible communication.
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Utilize local resources:
- Numerous organizations offer senior support. Useful contacts include:
- Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116
- National Institute on Aging website
- Family Care Navigator
- State government websites, searching for elder care services.
- Home Care agencies, staffed with certified professionals, can also be invaluable.
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Maintain comprehensive records:
- Organize a binder with notes, medical records, insurance details, calendars, and communication copies to manage the complexity of care.
- Include all healthcare providers’ contact details, ensuring copies are available to all caregivers and keep the information current.
The National Institute for Aging provides extensive resources on long-distance caregiving, including downloadable guides and a dedicated caregiving webpage, offering a wealth of information on caregiving challenges, including managing the emotional impact of long-distance care.
Helping Hands Residential Care Home is located at 494 SW Halibut Ave, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953. Contact us today to learn more (888) 814-7117.
