Challenges and Solutions to Long Distance Caregiving

senior_on_phone Long distance caregiving poses some unique challenges, as it is difficult to physically check-in on your loved one in their own home. Instead, you must rely on periodic visits and the reports of others. However, there are solutions to most concerns.

Concern: Your loved one can no longer leave his home to go grocery shopping or tends to buy unhealthy foods.

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.com 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: Your loved one isn’t getting the most out of his doctor’s appointments.

Solution: Ask your loved-one to sign a release form the next time he is at the doctor’s office, so you can have access to his medical files and permission to talk to the doctor about confidential information. This way, you can speak with the doctor before or after an appointment to discuss your loved one’s treatment plan. Another solution is to schedule doctor’s appointments when you are going to be in town, so you can accompany your elderly family member. This way, you can talk to the doctor in person and let him know of any problems you have observed.

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. A remote monitoring system can be installed in an elderly individual’s home. It allows you to set alarms, adjust the temperature, and turn lights on and off—among other things—from a remote location. It 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.

Challenges and Solutions to Long Distance Caregiving Podcast

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