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Providing Support to an Aging Parent That Lives Miles Away

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Caregivers in Stuyvesant NY: Providing Support to an Aging Parent that Lives Miles Away

Telltale signs may be evident. Your loved one doesn’t sound quite so optimistic during your weekly calls. There is a sense of hesitancy, even fear, when asked how they’ve been doing. Your last visit revealed a home that was in disarray and items in the refrigerator that were outdated. The problem is that you are an only child who lives hundreds of miles away and you are uncertain how you can help.

Access

The first step in a situation such as this is to assess your parent’s needs. Ask your parent for their permission to speak to their primary health care practitioners to determine if there is an underlying disease processes that they have not revealed. Schedule a weekend that you can visit with your parent and discuss as well as observe their daily needs and challenges.

The Caregiving Team

Even miles away, there are some things you can do to help care for your aging parent. The advent of the internet has made long-distant jobs as well as long-distance caregiving possible. You may not be able to be there for their everyday needs, but you can assist in other ways. Your parent may need help paying their bills and keeping their finances in order—a distant caregiver is perfect for this task. They require companionship—using video chat apps to keep in touch with your parent every few days does wonders for their outlook.

They will need some assistance closer to home. Consider the following:

  • Transportation. Many communities offer volunteer transportation for homebound seniors. Contact the local senior community center which is often a tremendous source of information regarding support for senior citizens.
  • Meals. There are several meal delivery options available in most communities. These include Meals on Wheels which offers free and low-cost meals delivered straight to the door for seniors in need. Silver BistroMD and My Silver Age are just a few of the delivery systems designed with seniors in mind.
  • Companionship. There are several volunteer organizations that provide this type of support for the elderly. Check with your parent’s local Area Agency on Aging regarding organizations in your area.
  • In-Home Care Provider. An in-home care provider can assist with the daily activities of living as well as provide transportation, meal preparation and companionship.

Cast Your Net Wide

When looking for solutions that will help your parent age at home, cast your net wide. Consider friends, neighbors and groups they may have been involved with. You never know until you ask.

If you or an aging loved one are considering non-medical in-home care in Manhattan, NY, call Griswold Home Care and speak to one of our caring staff members today. Call (212) 845-9854

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