Deciding to move a family member into an assisted living residence can be challenging and emotional for many people. When the loved one lives states away, it’s an even more difficult decision – one that inspires worry about being able to remain involved in their care. Despite living many miles away, establishing consistent family involvement is vital for emotional well-being and security. If you are facing the prospect of chosing an assisted living residence for your loved one from afar, these practical tips can help to assure you that they receive the best possible care.
The Dilemma of Long-Distance Caregiving
The logistical complications of long-distance oversight can seem unsurmountable and impossible to navigate if this is your first time in this paticular situation. Placing a loved one in a senior care residence can inspire feelings of guilt, or concern about not being physically present to advocate. However, it’s important to remember that a professionally run assisted living facility will operate as your partner and facilitator, communicating all needed information regarding your loved one’s care.
Technology can change the way in which we sustain connections and remain involved in our loved one’s care. Video calling allows family members to speak face-to-face with their loved one, giving emotional comfort and access to care discussions. While you may be located in a remote location, the residential personnel onsite can help in setting up these virtual calls, ensuring you still play an active role in your loved one’s life.
Assembling a caregiving team is another vital component of long-distance oversight of care. This team can involve local friends or relatives who can be physically present, a local physician, and the facility’s trained staff for day-today care. As a long-distance family member, you may play a more administrative role, managing the financial and legal aspects of your loved one’s care. Personnel at the assisted living facility staff can apply their caregiving experience to assist your family member through any challenges they face.
Practical Recommendations for Long-Distance Caregivers
Monitoring the care of a family member from a distance requires tactical strategies to make sure their physical and mental health is protected. Here are some basic tips to make long-distance caregiving more efficient.
- Routine check-ins via phone or video call can help family members to keep track on the individual’s wellbeing and understand their daily activities. Many assisted living residences provide secure online applications to view medical updates and care plans.
- Online banking portals, joint bank accounts, and bill-pay services can facilitate and streamline financial management. Legal structures such as power of attorney or healthcare directives can allow family members to consult with professionals on behalf of their loved one.
- While virtual communication is essential, nothing replaces the effectiveness of onsite visits. These visits can be used to perform safety audits of your loved one’s apartment, spend quality time together, and consult with personnel regarding concerns or updates.
How Assisted Living Residence Staff Can Help
Assisted living communities provide an array of services that can help to alleviate the problems of long-distance caregiving, such as:
Daily Care: Meal preparation, medication management, and assistance with daily activities (ADLs).
Medical Coordination: Schedule and transport to medical appointments.
Emotional Support: Plan social activities and therapy sessions to keep residents emotionally healthy and engaged.
Security: Round-the-clock emergency response to ensure the security and safety of the residents.
Family Communication: Offer confidential online portals to share updates and video conferencing opportunities for virtual family visits.
Finding the Right Assisted Living Residence
If you are tasked with finding the right assisted living or memory care center for you loved one but live in another state, My Care Finders provides an excellent solution.
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