Mini Sandwiches – Part Three

Today is the last of a three part series about Sandwich Mamas who may not currently be providing hands-on care for their aging parents. There are many challenges in overseeing parent care from afar. If you are responsible for this type of caregiving, frequent visits to your parents are likely  so I want to provide you with a few preparation tips when planning that visit.

Prepare in advance. Your stress-level will stay in check if you discuss with your parents what they would like to do when you visit. Maybe they need to do some shopping or have doctor appointments they would like you to attend. Perhaps they need help with home improvements or other work they cannot complete so knowing these desires ahead of time will help you budget your time appropriately.

Make appointments. If you need to discuss your parent’s situation with medical personnel or professionals, make appointments in advance.

Assess their needs. Before my unexpected blogging hiatus, I discussed the importance of keeping watch of your aging parent’s needs during a visit. Parents do not always share the little details of their daily life so becoming a detective during your stay will provide you with vital information.

Visit! You have so many things you are responsible for as a long distance caregiver but you are still their child. Take the time to chat with them, participate in activities they enjoy and just plain, old soak them up.

It is my sincere hope that this series provided you with information to help in long distance oversight or preparation for future care. If you have other needs that you would like me to address, please let me know!