Caring for Seniors from a Distance: Tips to Consider

Caring for a senior loved one from afar is never easy. You may feel like you are missing out on the day-to-day issues that matter to them, and this can be frustrating. Thankfully, there are ways to stay connected without being in the same place as them all of the time. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for caring for seniors who live far away.

Tips to Take Care of Seniors from Afar

Select an Ideal Messaging or Video-Calling Platform to Stay in Touch

Today's technology has made it easier for seniors to connect with their loved ones even when they are far away. There are many ways to do this. From video chat apps, like Skype and FaceTime, which you can use for free, to apps that allow you to send voice messages. There are also email services that send scheduled text messages automatically. This way, you don't have to worry about forgetting to send a message.

Social media is another good way for seniors to stay connected with their loved ones. If your loved one is on Facebook, for example, you can send messages to them via their page. You also have the option of setting up a private message thread with just your loved one and other family members if they are on Messenger.

Set Up a Care Conference

Is your loved one struggling with their health? Are you having trouble navigating the healthcare system? Then it might be a good idea to set up a care conference with them and their doctor. A care conference is when you get everyone together on the same platform to talk about your loved one's health concerns even if it is just for an hour. This way, despite the distance, it can feel like they are right next to you while having this conversation.

Explore Suitable Living Arrangements

Ensuring that your loved one is living in a safe and healthy environment is a great way to provide you with some peace of mind.  You can start by asking them what their ideal living situation would be. Then, you can start looking into different types of senior housing that might fit this description. Ask about programs they have in place for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, so you know how they treat residents with these conditions.

Plan Visits Throughout the Year

It's hard not to be around your loved ones when they need help or just want to see you. However, it is important for seniors that their routine stays as normal as possible even if a family member isn't there all of the time. This means you should plan visits throughout the year. This way, you can be there when they need help and want to spend time with you. You might even consider making these visits a yearly thing, like going on vacation together at least once every summer.

Do You Need Help?

Finding it difficult to take care of a senior loved one from a distance? Then you don't have to go it alone. A good home care agency, like Senior Helpers Erie, can assist you with everything from checking in on your loved one's health, socializing with them, managing medications and treatments, to providing transportation when they need it. 

To learn more about the services we offer, contact us today.