If you are caring for a loved one from a significant distance, you're not alone. Approximately 7 million adults manage care for aging parents who live an hour or more away. Adult children often first realize that Mom or Dad needs help when there’s a sudden health emergency. Sometimes a child may notice a parent’s deteriorating health during a visit. Family often must move quickly to make complex arrangements for parents.
The following are some basic tips to stay organized and in control.
Start the caregiving process before a crisis develops.
Determine the type of care your loved one desires and his life vision. Make certain that personal business like advance directives, health insurance, power of attorney and wills is complete and accessible.
Stay in touch as much as possible.
Keep a regular schedule to check in with your loved one and monitor progress.
Get help from people in the community, a next door neighbor, friend, pastor, etc. Make certain that you have a trusted network of people that you can call upon to assist in an emergency. Easy Living Services offers the Client Care Advocate program to assist busy or geographically distant families "keep an eye" on seniors living alone or in assisted living/nursing home environments. Learn More...
If a change is noted in your loved one's manner or health, consider contacting his physician, social worker or a geriatric case manager for an evaluation.
Keep Detailed Records.
Maintain a binder or folder to store important documents and establish a detailed contact list for easy reference. Document important conversations, health conditions, medication list and insurance information.
Develop of list of resources for use in managing your loved one's care including, local senior centers, physicians, and home health care agency.
Load key numbers into your cell phone for quick access.
Enlist assistance.
If coordinating the necessary resources for a parent becomes too complicated, consider consulting with a professional service, like Easy Living Services. A quality In-Home care agency can perform a detailed assessment and determine how best to meet the complex needs of an elderly loved one including decisions regarding suitable best living situations. They can arrange for services such as personal or companion care assistance, transportation, home management, and can facilitate communication with family members. Contact the staff at Easy Living Services (770-442-8664) to learn more about our service options and the various ways we can make life a little easier for your family.
Caregiving can feel like a second job. Remember, to take care of yourself and ask for help when possible.
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