Caring For Elderly Parents from Afar: Tips for the Long-Distance Caregiver

South Florida has a rich tapestry of people who move here to live out their retirement. However, often their family members and loved ones are in another state or country, far away from the Sunshine State. Living far away can come with its own set of challenges to help ensure that elderly loved ones are taken care of and protected from a far.

Here at the Deere Law Firm, we are deeply committed to the well-being of families and their members, especially those navigating the complexities of elder care, we're eager to share some guidance for families with elderly parents who may be living at a distance. Our aim is to empower you with strategies and resources to ensure your loved ones receive the care and support they need, despite the miles that may separate you.

Build a Support Network:  

It's essential to cultivate a network of helpers for your elderly parent, encompassing friends, neighbors, and members of their faith community. We recommend creating a detailed spreadsheet that includes contact information and outlines the roles these individuals can play in times of crisis. This network can prove invaluable in finding trusted contractors or handymen for essential services like plumbing or lawn care. In addition, identifying a local attorney such as the Deere Law Firm who with a focus on elder law can be invaluable to updating estate planning documents from another state as well as providing resources and support for elderly persons who are new to the state.

Engaging with Aging Advocates

Familiarize yourself with aging advocates within your loved one’s community. Tools like online elder care search companies can help identify crucial services, including Meals on Wheels, respite care, and options for home modifications. In certain areas, geriatric care managers are available to help coordinate care and manage appointments, providing an extra layer of support. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), offer a wealth of resources, including peer support, education, and training opportunities that can enhance your caregiving approach. The Florida State Area Agency for Aging offices, with various local offices all over the state, can also provide resources to help families with aging loved ones, including Medicaid services for Long Term Care.

Managing Financial, Legal, and Insurance Matters

Ensure that you have access to and understand all necessary financial, legal, and insurance details related to your loved one’s care. It’s crucial to be vigilant against frauds and scams targeting the elderly, particularly those with cognitive decline. Regularly review financial statements and stay informed about who is in contact with your loved one. As you oversee or assist with your loved one's financial management, integrate estate planning conversations into this process. This includes knowing how assets should be titled, the implications of various power of attorney designations, and how to navigate Medicaid planning. Our firm can provide you with the necessary insights and assistance to manage these complex issues effectively. 

Working with an Elder Law attorney such as the Deere Law Firm, can ensure that relevant documents are up to date, including establishing trusts if necessary, and making sure all financial activities are aligned with the individual's long-term wishes. Regularly reviewing these documents as part of financial oversight can prevent future complications and ensure that your loved one's desires are fully respected.



Leveraging Technology

Modern technology offers tools that can significantly ease the caregiving process, from online banking and grocery delivery to medication reminders and prescription refills. Devices like fall detectors, home automation video devices (like Alexa), and video doorbells can offer peace of mind, while video chat technologies enable caregivers to stay connected, participate in medical appointments, and share in other significant moments. As an elder law attorney, I may recommend a camera security system that monitors the main areas of the home. Wherever possible, I encourage that this be done to afford as much dignity and privacy as possible to the elderly in the home.

Utilize available technologies not just for day-to-day caregiving tasks but also for organizing and managing estate planning documents. At the Deere Law Firm, we use Docubank® to help keep healthcare legal documents such as the Living Will, Health Care Surrogate Designation (Health Care Proxy), and HIPAA Waivers are kept electronically and available 24/7 in the event of an emergency or even just to give the doctor’s office and updated set. Secure digital storage solutions can keep important documents accessible yet safe.

Self-Care for Caregivers

As a caregiver, your well-being is as important as that of your loved one. Remember, long-distance caregivers can provide substantial support to family members who are in closer proximity to the elderly parent, offering them much-needed respite. However, being far away can take its toll on the long-distance caregiver. Often, the worry, concern, and guilt that may come with being far away from elderly loved ones can lead to anxiety, increased stress, and adverse health condition in the caregiver.  Remember, taking care of yourself is important. In addition, taking care of your own legal affairs is also a form of self-care. Ensure your estate planning is in order, reflecting your role as a caregiver and any implications it may have on your own estate and future planning.

Our firm is here to support you with the legal and planning aspects of caregiving and estate planning. We offer tailored advice and legal services to help you navigate these challenges, ensuring that your loved ones are cared for and their legacy protected. Let us assist you in creating a comprehensive plan that brings security and peace of mind to your family.  We understand the challenges you face and are committed to providing the resources and guidance you need to navigate this journey with confidence.

Chioma Deere, Esq.