Caring for an older adult from a distance can be a bit intimidating.
You might be asking yourself questions like, “How can I possibly be involved when I’m not in the area?” or “Will I be able to care for them properly when I’m so far away?”
Long-distance caregiving has unique challenges, but with 10 innovative strategies and resources, you can provide the support and care your loved ones need, no matter how far apart you live.
Your efforts, no matter the distance, truly make a difference in their lives.
Long-Distance Caregiving: 10 Tips on How to Stay Involved
1. Get Familiar With Your Role
If you’re new to the long-distance caregiver role, it’s helpful to get familiar with everyday responsibilities as soon as possible.
This means doing some research on caregiving in general (well done for visiting us here on DailyCaring.com), talking with family members to find out how they might be able to help, and putting together an action plan.
Being a caregiver of any kind is not easy; it requires planning and preparation. Set yourself up for success by learning the ins and outs of the process.
2. Make Communication as Easy as Possible
Long-distance caregiving requires a certain level of communication to be truly effective.
Because you can’t just stop by at the drop of a dime, you need strategic systems in place to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Regular check-ins with your loved one and the primary on-site caregiver help you stay informed about their needs and any changes in their condition.
3. Build a Network of Support
You’re not alone in this, even if it might feel that way at times.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to neighbors, family, friends, and other sources of support who live near your loved one as well.
This way, you have reliable people to reach out to if needed when you’re unable to be there physically.
4. Get Necessary Paperwork in Order
Organizing essential paperwork is an invaluable task, especially for those who are unable to do it themselves.
At your care recipient’s home or apartment, put essential information like medical records, emergency contacts, medication lists, healthcare provider details, and key legal documents into one accessible place.
Be sure to also keep copies for yourself so you can reference the documents if you need to manage care activities long-distance.
Digital tools such as shared cloud folders or caregiving apps can also help you keep other parties involved and updated on crucial information.
5. Get to Know the Healthcare Team
Get to know your loved one’s local healthcare professionals. Forming relationships can help ease some of the worry.
Having relationships with the healthcare team can help you stay in the loop and feel comfortable reaching out if something feels off.
VIDEO: 10 Tips for Long-Distance Caregiving
6. Look Into Home Care Services
Depending on your loved one’s needs, you may want to research local home care services.
Even if home care isn’t needed right now, knowing what’s available and how things work gives you options for when things change.
Home care is a massive help for long-distance caregivers, as it can assist with daily activities such as meal preparation, medication reminders, errand running, and housekeeping.
In-home care services can give you peace of mind that your loved one is safe and their needs are being met.
7. Be Intentional With Your Visits
While in-person visits with your loved one will be less frequent due to the distance between you, make the most of your time together when you do have the opportunity to visit.
Even though your current role might include being their family caregiver, remember that you have a relationship outside of that, too.
Rather than making visits all about care logistics, take some time to make memories and enjoy the time you have together.
Then, during free moments, assess the situation and note any adjustments to the care plan that are needed.
8. Help Your Loved One Avoid Isolation
If an older adult doesn’t have many people nearby to rely on or socialize with, they might start to feel isolated or lonely.
Help them connect with others so they feel included.
Make sure the phone is easy to use and set up a way for them to video chat, like a simple tablet or laptop. (Get our recommendations for senior-friendly tech devices for keeping in touch here.)
Currently, only 61% of adults 65 and over own a cellphone. This leaves a large group that is missing out on this source of connection.
Another idea is to get your loved one an Amazon Alexa device. The Echo Show is a great way to stay in touch on an easy-to-use device.
When you are with them, teach them to use their devices so they can feel even more confident.
9. Be Mindful of Your Own Limits
Long-distance caregiving can be emotionally and mentally draining. It’s essential to recognize your own limits and avoid burnout.
Do your best to maintain a balance between your caregiving responsibilities and the rest of your life.
To manage the stress, consider seeking support from counseling services, support groups, or therapists.
10. Stay Up-to-Date
Stay up to date on your loved one’s medical conditions and any new developments by staying in touch with their healthcare team and local caregivers.
Knowledge is power, and being in the know can help you make informed care decisions and provide better support.
Final Thoughts About Long-Distance Caregiving
While miles may separate you, your love, advocacy, and strategic support can bridge the distance with powerful effectiveness. Remember, being a successful long-distance caregiver isn’t about being physically present for every moment; it’s about building a reliable support network, leveraging technology to stay connected, and focusing your energy on the high-impact tasks that truly matter.
Your role is vital and unique; you are the coordinator, the emotional anchor, and the fierce advocate. Be kind to yourself, celebrate the creative solutions you find, and trust that your dedicated involvement, however it manifests from afar, makes a profound difference in your loved one’s well-being.
Recommended for you:
- Long Distance Caregiving Tips: A Comprehensive Guide
- 5 Situations Where Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager Is Worth It
- Improve Seniors’ Doctor Visits with 3 Communication Tips
About the Author
Lance A. Slatton CSCM – Known as “The Senior Care Influencer” is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry. He is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. Lance A. Slatton is also the host of the award-winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters.
