Caring for Your Parents at a Distance 
       

Millions of Americans provide long-distance care to aging parents. Distance, however, does not diminish the adult family members’ concern for a parent’s welfare. The following tips may help you in caring for your long-distance parent.      

• Find out who is involved with your parent's daily life-make sure that your parent’s neighbors, relatives, friends and caregivers have your phone number. Encourage them to call you if they notice health changes or see a change in daily habits.
• Set aside funds in case of emergency-recognize that, in the event of health care crisis, you or your family will be required to travel. 
• Have family meetings to determine which sibling is "on call."
• Make sure to understand your parent’s financial status and care wishes before they are incapable of communication.  If you see a gradual decline, begin discussing plans for more intensive care with your parent.

The more input parents have in living arrangements, the easier the transition.  

Resources  

Eldercare Locater at 1-800-677-1116. This service provides information and referral to state and local area agencies on aging. 
      

The American Association for Retired Persons  (AARP) Health Advocacy Services publishes “Miles Away and Still Caring.” Write AARP, 601 E Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20049 to receive a copy.