How to Keep Your Aging Parents Safe From Afar

As parents get older, their mobility and physical capabilities weaken. Given these issues, it can be difficult to ensure their safety when you live a long distance away. Fortunately, there are ways to be proactive and protect them.

Stay in Touch

• Frequent contact with your parents is vital when living far apart. Set up a consistent schedule for phone calls and don’t be put off by the response of “We’re fine.” Ask questions about their social circle and activities. If they are not getting out, that can indicate something has changed or is wrong.
• Video calls are an even better way to maintain a personal connection because you can physically see how they are doing. If they use technology there are many free video conferencing platforms available such as Zoom and Skype, as well as free tutorials on how to use them.
  • These check ins don’t need to be formal but are a good opportunity to discuss health and financial issues.
  • Look for signs of forgetfulness, stress and physical changes which can indicate illness.
• Include occasional in-person visits as often as possible, with a minimum of once a year. In between, have a trusted resource visit them and report back to you.

Make Home Modifications

• If your parents want to age in place, you need to make sure they have a safe living environment. The family home you grew up in often has safety hazards. Here are some home modifications and renovations that can help prevent accidents.
  • Widen doorways
    • Helpful for seniors who use wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility devices
  • Install ramps or chairlifts
    • This can reduce the harsh impact and strain of walking up stairs.
    • This is essential for those who use wheelchairs.
  • Update flooring
    • Loose or shaggy carpets can cause a trip and fall. Replace with smooth carpet, hardwood or laminate flooring and pick up throw rugs.
  • Install a walk-in bathtub or shower
    • This ensures safe access.
    • Install grab bars for extra support and the ability to navigate slippery surfaces.

While these renovations are beneficial for protecting your parents, the cost can quickly add up. It can be tough to take on this financial burden, but there are many funding options available. Using your parents’ home equity to finance these projects might make sense. The payment is received in one lump sum and you can usually get a lower interest rate than a personal loan or credit card.

Create an Emergency Plan

• Creating an emergency plan is especially important when it comes to long distance caregiving.
• Make sure to have reliable contacts you can depend on if you need to leave town quickly.
  • Who are the people that can help with your children, pets, or cover you at work while you deal with any emergencies?
  • What role and responsibilities will they play?
  • Is their contact information readily available?
• It is important to have intentional conversation with your parents’ that give you access to their legal documents, medical records, insurance and bank account information to prepare for emergencies. When this information is readily available it prevents stress and confusion during a crisis.
  • Do you know what medications your parents are taking?
  • Where are important documents safely stored?
• Have your parents sign a Power of Attorney (POA) for finances.
  • A POA gives you the ability to manage their finances and pay for bills or expenses if they cannot.

Consider Your Options

• When your parents need extra assistance and guidance, would you?
  • Move them into an assisted living facility or nursing home?
    • These facilities can be expensive, but they are dependable and can ensure your parents are safe.
  • Use at-home senior care services?
    • This gives them the extra attention and help they may need, while allowing them to live independently at home.
  • Move your parents closer or create a space for them in your home?
    • This is a drastic step but can be a better alternative to assisted living or a nursing home if parents are struggling to live on their own.

Deb is the author of “Your Caregiver Relationship Contract.” This book explains how to have an intentional conversation and the how unspoken expectations can cause problems. Click here to learn more about Your Caregiver Relationship Contract.

Disclaimer: The material in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace, nor does it replace, consulting with a physician, lawyer, accountant, financial planner or other qualified professional.

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Deb is available as a caregiver consultant. She will answer the question: “Where do I start?” and find the resources to alleviate your stress. If you would like to invest a half hour to learn how she can help you, please contact her at: Free 30 minute consulting call