It’s not uncommon for family members to live hundreds and even thousands of miles apart. When everyone is healthy, phone calls, e-mails and visits can easily bridge the distance. But when a parent falls ill, the miles become an obstacle. Even a simple task like arranging your parents’ transportation to the doctor’s office can become a time-consuming challenge. That’s why it's helpful to put a system in place to help you offer steady support for your parents and provide a first response in case of emergency.
Here are some steps you can take now:
- Discuss the system with your parents and other family members. They can then help you collect the necessary medical, financial, and legal information. Put the phone numbers of your parents’ physicians in your cell, and file privacy forms with them so that you can discuss medical matters. Make a note of your parents’ date of birth, social security number, Medicare or Medicaid number, health insurance information, and the dosages of all medications they are taking.
- Get the lay of the land. If you don’t know your parents’ neighbors and friends, ask them to introduce you. It may help to have their phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Is there someone they trust where they can leave an extra key to their home? Ask your parents where they keep essential documents and keys. Bring back home a copy of their local telephone book.
- Investigate engaging a geriatric care manager. These trained professionals can serve as the lynchpin of a care network that links you and your parents to the most appropriate, highly regarded community resources. They can also act as your eyes on the scene, keeping you up-to-date on your parents’ situation.
If you take these few steps, you will go a long way toward ensuring your parents’ safety and your peace of mind. Your local Sunrise community can help connect you with resources to assist with long distance caregiving.