Caring for distant elderly relatives: 5 top tips

Caring for elderly parents who live far away can be challenging, but there are several ways you can support and care for them from a distance. Here are five suggestions:

Regular Communication
Maintain regular contact with your elderly parents through phone calls, video chats, or messaging apps. Regular communication helps you stay updated on their well-being, address any concerns, and provide emotional support. With zoom calls you can even extend this to online games to keep them active and engaged.

Coordinate Local Support
Research and establish a network of local resources, such as home care services, meal delivery, or transportation assistance, that can help meet your parents’ needs. Engage with trusted neighbors, friends, or relatives who can provide occasional check-ins or assistance when necessary.

Medical and Financial Management
Help your parents organize and manage their medical and financial affairs. Assist them in setting up automatic bill payments, arranging medical appointments, and maintaining an updated list of medications. Offer guidance in understanding insurance policies and ensure they have access to necessary documents.

Arrange Visits and Check-ins
Plan regular visits to spend quality time with your parents, assess their living conditions, and address any immediate concerns. If frequent visits aren’t possible, consider enlisting the help of a trusted local friend or family member to check in on them periodically and report back to you.

Embrace Technology
Utilize technology to enhance care and safety. Set up smart devices like home monitoring systems or wearable health trackers to provide extra support and peace of mind. Explore telehealth options that allow remote medical consultations if applicable.

Remember, it’s important to respect your parents’ autonomy and involve them in decision-making as much as possible. Assess their needs and preferences and adapt your care approach accordingly. Additionally, consider consulting with professionals such as geriatric care managers or social workers who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.