5 Ways to Support Your Senior Loved One as a Long-Distance Caregiver
When it’s your job to check up on your senior loved one from afar and make sure that their healthcare needs are met, you might wonder how you can stay updated on their day-to-day life without packing up and moving closer. Not long ago, one could only carry out caregiving responsibilities if they lived with their loved one, but today, technology has made it possible to be an effective long-distance caregiver.
As a long-distance caregiver, you’ll want to make sure that you and your loved one have all the tools you need to stay in touch. These tips from SendaRide will help you keep your loved one safe and healthy, even when you don’t live nearby.
Transportation and Delivery Services
For many older adults, driving is at best a difficulty and at worst not an option. This can make it tricky for these individuals to get to and from healthcare appointments and pick up prescriptions and groceries. The good news is that seniors can benefit greatly from working with a healthcare agency that partners with SendaRide. Our safety protocols, including our strict requirements for our drivers, provide peace of mind for seniors and their loved ones that they’ll be able to visit their doctors and receive their necessities safely and without hassle. Caregivers will benefit from ensuring their senior loved one works with a healthcare provider that uses SendaRide’s services. If you’re an individual or business interested in signing up the seniors in your care for our transportation services, contact SendaRide online or call (800) 731-1885.
Tracking Vitals
If you’re a long-distance caregiver, you may worry that you won’t know when your loved one is in need of medical assistance, especially if their mobility is limited. Thankfully, healthcare technology makes it easy for you to find out, without any extra effort from your loved one.
Today, your loved one can choose from a wide variety of wearable fitness trackers designed specifically with seniors in mind. These devices can measure their vitals and alert you if there is any cause for concern. Take time to discuss this option with your loved one and find a tracker that is comfortable for them and suits their needs and lifestyle.
Reliable Cell Phone Plan
Your cell phones are among the most important devices that you and your loved one will need. Even if you both already own up-to-date phones, you may want to go over your cell phone coverage to see if frequent texts and phone calls would result in overage charges. You will also want to be prepared for phone calls with their doctors or the staff at their assisted living community, if applicable.
Your loved one may qualify for senior citizen phone plans for people 55 and older, which can come with unlimited talk, text, and data. This way, you will be able to communicate as often as you need to without worrying about extra charges.
Digital Medication Dispenser
Does your loved one take several medications? You may be wondering how you can know for sure that they are taking all their pills as prescribed, especially if you can’t see them in person.
According to Senior Living, a digital medication dispenser can alert your loved one when it is time to take their medication. It will only open at the appropriate time for a dose, and if a dosage is missed, you will be notified. With a digital medication dispenser, you will know immediately if your loved one forgets to take medication or if they were physically unable to, and you can take action accordingly.
Regular Video Chats
Phone calls are great, but video chatting can give you a better idea of how your loved one is feeling. You’ll be able to see their facial expressions, body language, and mannerisms, and you’ll notice if anything is out of the ordinary.
According to Right at Home, most seniors are capable of learning how to use tools like video chatting apps, but they may be reluctant to try at first. Sitting down with your loved one to teach them how these apps work can help them feel more confident, and they will have an easier time getting in touch with you.
Being a caregiver for a senior loved one in any capacity brings unique challenges. As a long-distance caregiver, you’ll find that a combination of modern healthcare technology and consistent communication will help you feel more secure in your role and ensure that your loved one receives the support they need.
To learn more about how SendaRide’s services can benefit the seniors in your life, visit our website.
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