Long Distance Caregiving

Due to geography, there may be resentment towards the long-distance family members that don’t have a regular role in the day-to-day caregiving routine. Long-distance caregiving utilizing telecommunication technologies can be a convenient way to assist with mental health support.

Long Distance Caregiving – Assistance Through Technology

It is important that everyone shares in the caregiving responsibility, and despite the distance, there are still many ways to assist. With technology and the advancement of the Internet, it’s especially easy to stay in touch and help manage things such as bank accounts and bill paying, among other health-related caregiving needs. Families can also help financially support daily aid expenses, but perhaps the most important way to show support and participation is through regular communication via phone, text, Skype, Facebook, etc., all interspersed with personal visits.

Most importantly, it’s crucial that family members are patient with one another and do not criticize those that are doing the day-to-day caregiving.  Their role is, without a doubt, the hardest of them all, and they deserve respect for the great job they are doing. However, with an open heart, patience, and understanding, families will find that teamwork helps make the best of an often difficult situation.

Long Distance Caregiving – From Caregiver Stress

Long-distance caregiving comes in many forms. With the help of smartphone apps and other assistive technologies, loved ones and family members can stay connected while offering much needed support. 

Below are some ways you can help provide much needed caregiving support to those in need.

• Support by helping with finances – If you’re attempting to ensure that bills are paid and medical needs like prescriptions are filled, gaining access to accounts is often necessary and can be difficult., losing control of these aspects of life may be scary for your loved one. Having conversations about appointing a power of attorney is important to ensure that important legal and financial help on behalf of your loved one can occur.

• Organize support groups – As is sometimes the case, organizing a group of local family or friends that can assist with meal delivery, daily check-ins and helping with transportation needs can be pivotal in ensuring your loved one receives the care they need. 
• Delegate – When it comes to being responsible for another person, especially long distance, it’s important to delegate roles and tasks. By appointing certain responsibilities to your team of local caregivers, effective care and communication can be better managed. 
• Communicate – You may not be able to be there in person, but checking in frequently can help alleviate loneliness and help others feel like they aren’t alone in supporting your loved one. In addition, checking in with doctors and other professionals can help make catching any issues less problematic.

Supporting a loved one from afar is difficult, and it’s common to feel as though you just aren’t doing enough. You can do your part by checking in frequently when you can’t be there in person.  This helps with your loved one’s well-being and helps assure they’re well cared for by their support community.

If you or someone you love are experiencing a mental health crisis, please know you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you during these challenging times. Please visit our blog posting by following this link for access to community services, support groups, and mental health resources. To help support and raise awareness for those struggling with mental health challenges, please consider following us on Facebook and Instagram. Together, we’ll find a cure.