Families rarely stay in close proximity throughout a lifetime. Changing or evolving careers, fresh starts, and seeking out new opportunities often lead to children moving away from home. But when a parent or other elderly loved one is in need of some help in their advanced age; you may not be able to move back home. Caregiving for a loved one can often be a challenge across long distances, but it isn’t impossible. With these tips, you can ensure that your loved one’s needs are met, even if you aren’t in the same city or state as them.
Online or On the Phone
Even if you don’t live near your loved one, you can still help them plan their schedule and have what they need. You can schedule appointments over the phone, from doctors to hairdressers. You can order groceries online and have them delivered to their home. You can pay bills or process your loved one’s taxes online. Services that provide delivery of prescriptions can be set up from virtually anywhere. You can do a lot more for your loved one with a smartphone than what would have been possible just a few years ago.
Keeping a Watchful Eye
Video chatting applications, such as Facetime or Skype can allow you to chat with and see your loved one regularly and prevent isolation. Home security systems can be a good way to be able to check in on your elderly parent when needed. GPS tracking can be a helpful way to keep an eye on your loved one when they head to a doctor’s appointment.
Smart Homes
Smart Home systems can help you rest easy knowing that they are safe. Depending on the depth of control you are willing to pay for, you can control the thermostat, door and window locks, lights, and more in the home from anywhere.
Work With Their Neighbors
Exchange contact information with your loved one’s neighbors. In the event of an emergency, it is important to be able to reach someone close to them that you can trust.
Hire a Home Healthcare Professional
It may be difficult for you to fully maintain your loved one’s healthcare from a long-distance. Hiring a home healthcare aide or nurse can allow your loved one to receive the proper care they need while staying independent in their own home. They can provide help to your loved one in person; and can keep you updated on their health and wellness.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact Safe Harbor at (718)-979-6900.
