Caring for an Aging Parent From a Distance
Caring for an ageing relative is both challenging and rewarding. But when the relative - parent, aunt, uncle or grandparent - lives some distance away, the logistical problems can become complex.. A pendant alarm for the elderly is a must so that your loved one knows they can get help immediately when they need it. It’s very important to set up systems that can be used by everyone involved with the person’s care. For example, a file with details of all appointments from the hospital and ancillary services, and copies of all letters from the consultant and the GP, is essential. It means that carers, the district nurse and other family members can see at a glance what the person’s current medical situation is. Your relative can also use this file for reference if they are able, so this is a good place to keep the emergency numbers they can use. Try to put a summary of your relative’s current drug regime at the front of the file. A timetable format over seven days is useful so that people can look up which drugs are due at which times. This can also help with stock checks so that when you visit you can look ahead and see which drugs will need a repeat prescription in the next month. Doing this in advance means that you can submit the prescription in good time so that you can collect the drugs on your next visit.
Personal Alarms for the Elderly
A contact sheet is also a vital part of this file. Add your contact details, the GP's and consultant’s contact numbers and also the contact information for any caring agency. Make sure your relative has a panic alarm for the elderly, and add the details of this. Consider a contract with a provider Aster, which has carelines in Hampshire and other regions across the UK, with experienced and caring staff. Before your relative is unable to deal with their own affairs, discuss with them who they would like to look after their finances if they are unable to do so themselves. It’s far better for just one or two people to be appointed in this role - especially if they are able to access accounts. Make sure that there is access to money in the case of an emergency.
Regular Contact
Regular contact is vital. They may have a panic button, but older people can become anxious about missing incoming phone calls if they are asleep, for example. They may be more comfortable with scheduled contact - a call every day at six, or a call every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You need to pre-program the push buttons on their phone so your relative can easily contact both emergency helpers and the family. A large-button phone can be very helpful.