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Long-Distance Caregiving
It is possible to play an active role in caring for someone at a distance. One of the first questions, of course, is determining if someone needs help - and it's possible to make that decision at a distance.
The following links give several recommendations on how to go forwards with caring from a distance, and references for more information:
View or download these free, online handbooks give more detailed advice:
Aging Parents has a series of 4 podcasts / videos on Distance Caregiving (You Can Do It!, Your Support Network, Rural Caregiving, and When to Go). Links to audio-only podcasts are here (scroll down); or they can be viewed on YouTube:
When do you need to visit in person?
Technology to Assist
Current technology can greatly assist caring from a distance. Please see the sections on technologies in Caring Basics and Caring at Home (these sources discuss apps and tools for being present remotely with your loved one).
Video calling software applications like Zoom, Skype, or Facetime can be a real boon, not just to communicate with your loved one but also to virtually join health appointments (with permission) or for family conference calls. Remote sensors that check for falls or whether medications were taken on schedule, and monitoring cameras that check location or activity, can provide some peace of mind -- but can bring up some privacy concerns as well.
Technology is ever-changing, of course. Those links will help give an idea of the types of technology currently available, but searches will find new products. Try to find reviews or product comparisons, if possible, before buying.
Worried About Elder Abuse?
One fear shared by many long-distance caregivers is that their loved one might face elder abuse. Here are some of the warning signs of physical, emotional, or financial elder abuse.
If you suspect that a vulnerable adult might be in trouble, here are links to local agencies that can investigate and evaluate the situation.
Worried about older family or friends during this pandemic? Frustrated that you can't physically be with them during "stay home' orders? Our resource guide on Coronavirus and COVID-19 Information: Santa Clara County and California has extensive information and helpful links.
If your loved one is in California, the state has several initiatives for helping home-bound seniors during this pandemic. There is a statewide hotline number, staffed 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., 7 days a week at (833) 544-2374. For the Bay Area, an information and referral hotline is available 24/7 at 211.
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