Providing care for your parents or other family member from a distance presents a unique challenge. Planning ahead, considering "what if _____ happens" situations, and discussing preferred options can avoid complications in the future.

Following are practical tips to make distance caregiving less stressful:

• Gather information about services and programs in their community. Utilize Senior Linkage (1-800-333-2433) for Minnesota; Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) for nation-wide service information.
• Remember that your emotional support is very valuable. A weekly phone call or letter reminds them that you are thinking of them and concerned about their situation.
• Listen to family members and help them make decisions about the future. Active listening can be as important as actually providing care.
• Find someone in their community, such as a neighbor, minister, or public health nurse whom you can contact occasionally to learn more about your parents' situation. Provide such people with your phone number(s) and e-mail address for emergency contact.
• Consider a local case manager who will maintain weekly contact and help coordinate and supervise services.

Above all, keep the lines of communication open between you and your family members. Cooperation will continue if all of you strive to talk honestly and directly. Whatever caregiving services are used, make your choice based on the circumstances, history and personality of the dependent person.

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