Many people live far away from their elderly family members, which can make it difficult to provide them with the care they need. Instead of helping on a day-to-day basis, the long distance caregiver must rely on periodic visits and the reports of others. Thus, long distance caregiving does pose some unique concerns. Luckily, most of the concerns can be solved.

Concern: You elderly family member doesn’t eat nutritional meals or cannot leave the home to go grocery shopping.

Solution: Help your elderly family member set up an online account at a grocery store, so he can order from home and have his groceries delivered. You can even order for him if you’d prefer to choose the food items yourself. If you’d rather order pre-made meals DineWise delivers meals nationwide. They have options for people on special low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium diets. This is the perfect solution for diabetics or those with high cholesterol.

Concern: Doctor’s appointments aren’t as beneficial as they should be.

Solution: The next time your loved one is at the doctor’s office, ask him to sign a release form so you can view his medical files. This will enable you to speak to the doctor about confidential information before and after appointments. If possible, schedule doctor’s appointments while you are in town. This will allow you to speak to the doctor in person and tell him about any new symptoms you have noticed.

Concern: You don’t think your loved one is safe enough to live alone, but he doesn’t want to move.

Solution: Asking neighbors to check-in periodically can provide some piece of mind. However, there is some great technology that can make your loved one a lot safer. There are remote monitoring systems that can be installed in an elderly individual’s home. They allow you to set alarms, adjust the temperature, and turn lights on and off-among other things-from a remote location. They can be programmed to have a live video feed and take pictures. A Medical Alert System, is also very useful. It includes a panic button that can be worn as a belt clip, neck pendant, or wristband. Once the button has been pressed, a separate unit in the home calls a live dispatcher, who can then help the senior get whatever assistance he needs, whether that be calling 911 or a close family member.

Long distance caregiving can be challenging, but it is definitely possible with products made especially for home care. It is now easier than ever for your elderly family member to live safely at home.

Want to find out more about long distance caregiving, then visit Susan R. Love’s site and learn about how to choose the best independent living products and services for your caregiving needs.

baby boomers · caregiver · family · homecare. elderly care · long distance caregiving · Relationships · seniors