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Of the 34 million Americans who care for older family members, roughly 15 percent are long-distance caregivers. These caregivers live at least an hour’s drive from the older adults they are providing care for, typically their parents. Some caregivers are helping to care for siblings.
Many caregivers also work and some are raising children at the same time. And others juggle all three roles. If you’re caring for an older person from a distance, here is a checklist to help you through this process.
Schedule a family meeting
You and other family members should discuss what your older relative needs, who can help, and in what ways. Have the meeting by phone or the internet if that is easier.
Choose a primary caregiver
A primary caregiver’s job is to look at the big picture and help make sure that the older relative is getting the care needed. You and your family can choose who the primary caregiver should be at the family meeting. To avoid caregiver burnout, consider taking turns being the primary caregiver, if possible.
Consider sharing responsibilities among family members
If possible, you and other family members can take turns visiting and taking care of chores for your older relative. You can also take turns checking in by phone. Family members who live far away can still help. They might be able to pay for a weekly housekeeping service or another type of help.
Hire a geriatric care manager
Geriatric care managers are licensed nurses or social workers who specialize in the care of older people. They can evaluate an older person’s needs. They can also find and coordinate necessary services in their communities. See the Aging Life Care Association for more information.
Look into house call services
If your older relative needs regular medical care but is too frail to travel to a healthcare provider's office, look into house call visits. These are usually covered by Medicare. Various agencies, such as local hospitals, may offer them in your area. Search online for “physician house calls” and the name of your town or your zip code to help locate services.
Ask the older person to appoint a power of attorney
A power of attorney allows a designated person to make decisions on behalf of the older adult if they are unable to do so. This can be important for the older relative to have their wishes considered for decisions about health care, finances, and legal needs.
Ask others for help
If the older adult has friendly neighbors, ask them if they can help keep an eye out for the older person. If the older adult has attended a senior center, church, temple, mosque, or other faith-based organization, ask for their help as well.
Use the Eldercare Locator website to find a range of services for older adults. You can also call 800-677-1116.
Get the older person an “emergency call button” or a specialized phone
The button will send a message to an emergency service if the user pushes it. A special cell phone designed just for older adults may be easier to use than a regular smartphone.
Have someone check food storage areas
The older adult may not be aware when food has spoiled or is past its expiration date. The refrigerator, freezer, and pantry should all be checked on a regular basis to prevent any problems.
Continually assess safety and independence
Ask your relative, and any others involved with caregiving, to report any difficulties with daily activities – such as preparing meals, managing medications, or bathing.
Remember to take care of yourself
Being a caregiver can be demanding — especially when you’re doing it from a distance. Make sure you take care of yourself too. Try joining a caregiver support group in your community or look online for more support and tips. You can find these on the Eldercare Locator.
Last updated June 2019