Caring for Senior Loved Ones in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties, and Surrounding Areas with No Family Nearby

As you look around your parent's house, it seems that the pile of dishes in the sink keeps growing; Dad picks up a stack of mail from the front porch and stares at it for five minutes before realizing that he doesn't know what to do with it, and you think Mom may be wearing Dad's pajamas. Does this sound familiar? It might be time to take a more active role in caring for your aging parent.

With family and friends dispersed throughout the state, you may wonder how you can continue to care for your parent if they don't live in the same area. Here are some tips to help you plan for a long-distance caregiver relationship.

Shop & Ship Online

Aging parents often lose mobility or are less inclined to leave their homes. They can get caught in a cycle where they don't make contact with friends or family members and struggle to figure out how to get more of the products needed, even if they have access to a computer.

Online shopping can provide a convenient way to buy your parent's necessities without leaving the house.

This is also a home care service that Visiting Angels Central Coast offers, so please reach out if this is a service you'd like to discuss further.

Automate Bills & Pills

If Dad is still driving, remember that he may be forgetful, doesn't recognize the bills, or can't understand the names or phone numbers on the mail.

Paying bills and taking his prescription medication can become a chore for your parent, especially those facing declining mental faculties – they can and will forget about things like medication and bills.

Save your parent time and lots of money in charge by ensuring their obligations are automated. For prescriptions, consider professional help, as prescription management will help your loved one avoid costly hospital admission.

Add a Professional Caregiver to the Team

When a parent lives far from family, a professional caregiver can provide reassurance and ensure the well-being of your loved one. They can help with household tasks and chores, medication management, and senior care services to prevent falls or injuries.

Foster Community Engagement Opportunities

When parents live in a new place and don't have a support system, they can quickly feel isolated. Taking your parent to community events, like lectures, social activities, or grocery shopping, can encourage much-needed human interaction.

You can set up Uber transportation or a county transit ride so your senior loved one can attend their favorite weekly event or get their hair done. Visiting Angels Central Coast can provide transportation. Just reach out to our main office and get started today.

Use Video Chat Technology

Because Internet video chat allows you to see your parent in real-time, you can ask questions and address any concerns on your mind. Using video chat technology, you can drop into a regular phone call with your loved one, take notes and keep track of subtle hints that Dad needs more help or signs that he's doing well and may need some friendly visitors.

Schedule a FREE In-Home Care Consultation

Visiting Angels Central Coast provides professional companions for seniors. We have many home care and companion services for you to choose from.