Long-Distance Caregiving for Seniors Presents Unique Challenges
If you find yourself in the long-distance caregiving role, here is a summary of things to keep in mind.
Experienced caregivers recommend that you learn as much as you can about your family member or friend’s illness, medicines, and resources that might be available. Information can help you understand what is going on, anticipate the course of an illness, prevent crises, and assist in healthcare management. It can also make talking with the doctor easier.Make sure at least one family member has written permission to receive medical and financial information. To the extent possible, one family member should handle conversations with all healthcare providers. Try putting all the vital information in one place—perhaps in a notebook or in a shared, secure online document. This includes all the important information about medical care, social services, contact numbers, financial issues, and so on. Make copies for other caregivers, and keep the information up to date.
Try to find a directory of senior resources and services by checking with a library or senior center for lists of resources. Get several copies—one for yourself and one for the primary caregiver. This helps everyone learn what's out there and perhaps to start "plugging into the networks." Don't forget to check for updates.