Long Distance Caregiving

When you are a caregiver for someone that does not live near you, it is important to be organized. Here are some hints that may be helpful to you during your caregiving experience:

• Keep a diary of conversations with your loved one. This will help you for future reference regarding their health, both medically and mentally. You can notice positive or negative changes over a period of time.
• Take things one step at a time and do not neglect your own needs.
• Have a local Yellow Pages phone book for the city where your loved one lives. This can help you with various needed resources.
• Ask your loved one's opinion, yet know his/her limitations.
• Do your research on options for adult care. Check reference books, web sites and contact your local Area Agency on Aging.
• Create a set of files with your loved one BEFORE you need it, if possible. This may include copies of insurance policies with identification cards, a list of physicians being seen and the medication prescribed that includes dosages and expiration dates.
• Ask for help from family and friends. Having help with the little things can make a big difference.
• Have the proper legal documents in order well before you think you might need them. A will is of the utmost importance, as is a living will and power of attorney. For more information about these significant documents, we recommend talking with an attorney.