Being a long-distance family caregiver can be difficult at times, especially if you’re not sure whether you’re getting accurate information or not. Here are some things you need to be aware of while you’re still far away from your loved one.
Your Loved One Isn’t Always in a Crisis
It’s easy to believe, especially when you’re worried about your elderly loved one, that when she doesn’t answer the phone or return your call, she’s in danger. The reality is that sometimes your loved one won’t necessarily be available to you, even at a pre-arranged time. What can help is to let your loved one know that you worry about her and that you don’t want to jump to the worst conclusion. That way she’s more likely to tone down avoiding you now and again.
Your Loved One Might Tell You a Few White Lies
When you talk to your loved one and ask her how she’s doing, you’re probably going to hear some variation on, “I’m fine!” Your loved one doesn’t want to worry you or make you nervous, so she’s not necessarily going to be liable to tell you the full truth. She may not want to talk about the fact that her joints hurt, just like they do every day, and it’s easier to tell you that she’s doing great.
Your Loved One Might Spruce up for Visits
If you’re close enough, you might be able to visit your elderly loved one quite a bit, even though you live away from her. But you might not always be seeing her day in and day out reality when you get there. It’s not uncommon for elderly loved ones to spruce up a bit for visits, which might mean that the fridge and pantry are full, the house is neat and tidy, and anything that might worry you is out of sight.
Having Eyes and Ears on the Situation Helps You Prepare
The best scenario involves having someone that you trust to be the eyes and ears on your loved one’s situation. This might be other family members who can stop in and visit with her or it might mean hiring home care providers who can drop in and report back. Your loved one can still maintain her independence, but you get a fuller picture of the situation as it is.
Your elderly loved one doesn’t mean to be dishonest with you. She’s merely trying to put a good face on her situation and keep you from worrying.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional home care in Rockridge, CA, call the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care. Call today: (415) 795-2203
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