Caring for a loved one with dementia is challenging and particularly difficult from far away. The reality is that many of us are not able to live near older family members. If that describes your situation, here are some tips that may help make the journey easier for you and your loved one.
Long-distance caregiving presents unique challenges, especially when the care recipient has dementia.
Here are our top tips:
- Stay Informed & organized: Educate yourself about dementia to understand the changes your loved one is going through and the progression of the disease. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about their care. Keep a comprehensive file of medical records, contact information, legal documents, and care plans. Use digital tools to help manage these documents and share them securely.
- Create a local support network: contact family members, friends, or neighbors who live near your loved one and can check on them regularly. Having a local contact list for emergencies is crucial.
- Leverage technology: Video calls, smart home devices, and health monitoring apps can help you stay connected with your loved one and monitor their well-being from afar. Consider setting up remote monitoring systems that can alert you to unusual activity without being intrusive.
- Coordinate with healthcare providers: Establish communication with your loved one’s doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. Attend appointments virtually if possible or ensure someone local can accompany your loved one and report back.
- Consider professional care management: If you have the resources, hiring a geriatric care manager (also known as an aging life care professional) can help significantly by assessing needs, coordinating care, and navigating local resources on your behalf.
- Planning: Ensure all legal documents (like power of attorney, healthcare directives) are in place. Dementia care can be costly. Work with a financial planner or eldercare attorney to understand the costs involved and plan for your loved one's long-term care needs. Knowing your loved one’s wishes and having the authority to make decisions is critical in managing their care effectively.
- Regular visits: Plan for regular visits to spend time with your loved one and assess their condition and living situation firsthand. Use these visits to meet with healthcare providers, care managers, and local supporters.
- Emergencies: Have a plan for emergencies, including how you will get to your loved one quickly if needed. Know the logistics of potential moves to higher levels of care or hospital admissions.
- Caregiver support: Long-distance caregiving can be emotionally taxing. Seek support for yourself through caregiver support groups, counseling, or talking with friends and family. Remember, taking care of yourself is crucial to being able to care for others.
- Advocate for your loved one: Be an advocate for your loved one’s needs and preferences. Ensure they receive compassionate and respectful care that aligns with their wishes and dignity.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively care plan for your loved one long distance. The key is to be proactive, informed, and engaged in the caregiving process.
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