Six Precautions to Take When You’re a Long-Distance Caregiver

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You don’t live near your mom or dad. Long-distance caregivers face a few challenges. If something happens, you can’t get to your parents quickly. You have to rely on others to help. Here are six precautions to take when you’re a long-distance caregiver.

Home Care New Providence NJ - Six Precautions to Take When You're a Long-Distance Caregiver

Home Care New Providence NJ – Six Precautions to Take When You’re a Long-Distance Caregiver

Set up Video Cameras as an Extra Set of Eyes

Video doorbells and security cameras within the home provide an extra set of eyes. You’ll be able to screen footage on a security camera to make sure your mom and dad are up and okay. With a video doorbell, you can see who comes to the door and talk to them if needed.

Talk Often With Caregivers

Keep in touch with the people providing home care to your parents. You can see how things are going, answer questions, and determine if your parents’ needs have changed.

Be Involved in Your Parents’ Medical Care

If you don’t have HIPAA permissions, ask your parents to sign paperwork granting you permission to discuss medical issues. You can’t talk to your mom and dad’s doctors without their permission. You should also look into a medical power of attorney in case they need care and cannot speak for themselves.

Get to Know Your Parent’s Neighbors

If something happens, you want to be able to rely on someone nearby. If you don’t have friends or other family members in the area, a neighbor can help. During a trip to visit your parents, talk to neighbors. See if any are social enough to be in touch with you in case of emergencies.

If you grew up in the area, it may be easier. You might already know neighbors who have been around for a long time.

Set Up Medic Alerts and Keep Contacts Updated

A medic alert bracelet or GPS tracker is essential if your parent has dementia or another medical condition. Print out a contact and medical information sheet that you can stick to the fridge for emergency situations. Make sure you update the contact information when there are changes.

Talk to Your Parents’ Agency on Aging

There may be other services that can help your parent age at home. Home care providers cover a comprehensive range of services. It’s a good way to get all the help your parents need with one person.

A home care agency can talk about all the options. Transportation, housekeeping, and meals are popular. When you call, a home care professional will help you choose services that provide everything your parents need.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care Services in New Providence NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.

Susan Myer, RN, BSN, CCRN, CDP