Challenges and Solutions to Long Distance Caregiving
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 cannot leave home to go grocery shopping or has a habit of buying junk food.
Solution: Set up an online account with a grocery store that delivers food. Then help your elderly family member decide what he is going to order each week. If necessary, you can even make all the selections for him. Another option is to order pre-made meals that can be delivered to the home. DineWise delivers food all across the United States. This is a great option for people with medical concerns as they offer low-calorie, low-sodium, and low-carb meals.
Concern: Your loved doesn’t communicate well with his doctor.
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: Your loved one is content living at home, and refuses to move into an assisted living residence even though you think it is a good idea.
Solution: First, you can ask neighbors to stop by and say hi, just to make sure everything is ok. If you’d prefer a more thorough, technological approach, you can have a monitoring system installed. A remote monitoring system can be programmed to have a live video feed. It can also be used to set alarms, adjust the lighting, and change the temperature. It helps create the ultimate piece of mind for a long distance caregiver. If you are more concerned about your loved one getting injured or having a medical emergency, a Medical Alert System. The system includes a panic button; when pressed, the button prompts a separate unit to call a live dispatcher. The dispatcher can then send whatever help is needed. The button itself can be worn as a pendent, watch, or on a belt clip.
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.
For more information about long distance caregiver services, visit Susan Love’s site where you will find a wide selection of senior care products and services.
