Program & Services

Caregiving Long-Distance

Money - You should get the following if your parent cannot handle their money:

• A power of attorney can give you the right to take care of their money. A regular power of attorney will not work if your parent becomes really sick.
• A list of all of their money. You can protect more money from your parent's savings by moving money out of a passbook account into a certificate of deposit. You can also take a loan against an insurance policy. A joint bank account with your parents is useful for paying the bills.
• A computer can put certain money right into your parent's account. Many bills can be paid this way.
• An extra health insurance policy. This can cover the gaps in Medicare. There is always the risk parent might forget to pay the premiums. Always ask for copies of every bill to be sent to you.
• Insurance claim forms for medical bills. The law says that your parent's doctor has to enter a Medicare claim. It is up to you to catch the Medicare mistakes and to collect on private insurance claims.

Health - If your parent needs help with the house and their health:

• Check the house. Are the lights bright enough? Can you get rid of throw rugs? Should the doorsill be taken out? Does your parent need a stool in the tub? A higher toilet seat? A stair elevator?
• Talk to your parent about a living will and a power of attorney. A living will let parents tell their wishes while they are able. A power of attorney gives someone the right to make medical decisions for their parent. Free living will forms are offered. Write to the Society for the Right to Die, 250 W. 57th St. NY, NY 10107.

Other issues

• Find the people who take care of your parent. Tell them thank you. Ask them to call you if anything is wrong.
• Plan for health and personal care. This can be hard. It can be even harder if you live far away. There are services on the web. It can take time and money to line up all the help you may need.
• Call your local Area Agency on Aging. They can provide free booklets on elder care and a directory of local services. This agency can also give you access to free care managers.
• Think about a private care manager. They cost about $150-$500. They will visit your parent and make a report. You can spend more money and have them find home health workers, recommend nursing homes, pay regular visits to your parent, and handle emergencies.