Staying Connected With Parents Across State Lines
Caring for aging parents across state lines can be stressful. Nothing will ever replace being with your parents in person, but there are ways you can still make sure they are taking care of themselves and staying in good shape. Here are some ideas for caring for and keeping close contact with parents across state lines.
Keep Communication Open
First and foremost, it is essential to realize the impact of a long-distance relationship with a parent. Both sides will need to strike a good balance of communication. Several strategies can be used
- Communication Tools
Calling and texting are great ways to stay in touch with parents, but other technological solutions can also be used. Some people email, while others like to use FaceTime.
- Family Meetings
Meetings can be scheduled for larger families so communication is inclusive and effective. Zoom calls are beautiful ways to get the whole gang together for a quick catch-up conversation.
- Schedule Specific Times to Check In
Everyone is busy, so scheduling specific times to speak makes sense. When scheduling phone meetings, choose a time that works for everyone.
Regular Visits
Make sure to schedule frequent visits. An occasional unplanned visit can give you an idea of your parents' day-to-day life. You’ll learn more about their needs and how to best help them.
Utilize Technology
Health Monitoring Apps
There are numerous apps and technologies that can be used to help your parents take care of themselves. From health apps to meditation apps, you and your parent can work together to keep their health at an optimal fitness level.
Location Apps
Enabling an app like Find My iPhone or the Android equivalent is a reliable way to track your parents' location at any time.
Rescue Devices
One way to ensure that Mom and Dad are safe and well-equipped in an emergency is to provide them with medical alert devices. If someone has an incident, help will quickly be on the way.
Seek Professional Help
Home care services can help immensely when it comes to caring for a parent. You can’t be there, so having someone else there to help will give you much-needed peace of mind. Home care services can range anywhere from just checking in and paying a somewhat social visit all the way to administering medications and other medical care.
Seek Legal Help for Professional Planning
Establish a Power of Attorney for your parents so that health care and financial decisions are made before anything happens. Estate planning is another crucial item to check off the list.
Community Support
Numerous help groups and support systems are available to help with your parent’s needs.
- Senior Centers
Most communities provide senior centers that offer activities, meals, light medical support, and social activities.
- Community Resources
Take advantage of resources within your parents’ community. Some offer rides to medical appointments, meal delivery, and other services.
Keep Up with Appointments
Another great way to keep up with your parents from afar is to make sure you’re taking notes on their appointment schedule. A quick reminder and check-in will help them remember the schedule. Speak with your parents and their doctors and have them sign a HIPAA release so that you can be listed as an informed party and be advised of any medical information you might need.
Create an Emergency Strategy
Come up with a quick list that you’ve coordinated with your entire family that dictates a plan of action if an emergency should occur. Having a go-to strategy will ease your mind, so you don’t have to worry.
Emotional Support
Most importantly, your parents will need emotional support. The distance between you will create a confluence of many emotions. Your parents may feel abandoned or lonely, and you may feel helpless or guilty. Make sure that you have the resources for self-care so that you are emotionally putting the oxygen mask on yourself first. That way, you can be a compassionate caregiver from afar.
Conclusion
Working together with other family members, strategizing, and being consistently available, you can successfully manage care for a parent across state lines. When in doubt, call the professionals for help.
BrightStar Care
When you are ready to work with a professional to help care for your parents, BrightStar Care is a wonderful resource. From light lifestyle management for your elderly relatives to complete in-home medical care, BrightStar Care works together to meet your family’s needs. We hire the most caring and compassionate nurses and caregivers so your loved one can receive care gracefully and in their own home. Give yourself some well-deserved peace of mind, knowing that your long-distance parent is receiving the best possible care. To find out more about us, visit our website or call (612) 428-1224