What can a caregiver do from far away?

Anyone, anywhere, can be a long-distance caregiver, no matter your gender, income, age, social status, or employment. If you are living an hour or more away from a person who needs your help, you’re probably a long-distance caregiver. You may ask yourself—what can I really do from far away? Long-distance caregivers take on different roles. You may: Help with finances, money management, or bill paying Arrange for in-home care—hire professional caregivers or home health or nursing aides and help get needed durable medical equipment Locate care in an assisted living facility or nursing home (also known as a skilled nursing facility) Provide emotional support and occasional respite care for a primary caregiver, the person who takes on most of the everyday caregiving responsibilities Serve as an information coordinator—research health problems or medicines, help navigate through a maze of new needs, and clarify insurance benefits and claims Keep family and friends updated and informed Create a plan and get paperwork in order in case of an emergency Evaluate the house and make sure it's safe for the older person's needs Learn more about getting started as a long-distance caregiver on our website. Share this information on social media: Anyone, anywhere, can be a long-distance #caregiver. If you are living an hour or more away from a friend or family member who needs your help, you’re probably a long-distance caregiver. Learn more about what you can do for the person from afar: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/getting-started-long-distance-caregiving