Long-distance caregiving refers to providing or coordinating care for an aging loved one when you live more than an hour away. Not being able to stop by in person can bring up many emotions — worry, guilt, overwhelm, and uncertainty. The good news is that it is possible to successfully manage caregiving from a far in many situations with planning and flexibility.
This article will discuss what long-distance caregiving looks like, how to stay informed about your loved one’s medical and legal needs, ways to expand their support network, helpful technology tools, communication strategies, and the importance of caring for yourself throughout the process.
What Is Long-Distance Caregiving?
Long-distance caregiving may involve living more than an hour away, in another state, or even in another country. Today, this situation is increasingly common. Many families are unable to relocate due to work, limited time off, financial responsibilities, or children at home.
While all caregiving has challenges, long-distance caregivers often face added stress due to travel demands, expenses, limited availability, and the emotional weight of not being nearby.
Make Sure Legal & Medical Documents Are in Place
Encourage your loved one to complete important legal documents such as a Health Care Proxy (HCP), HIPAA authorization form, and Power of Attorney (POA). These forms are imperative as they will allow them to choose someone they trust to make medical and financial decisions if they become unable to do so themselves.
Without these documents, medical providers typically cannot share information with you. Once these forms are on file, gather key information such as medical history, medications, diagnoses, doctors’ names, and contact details. Keep everything organized in an easily accessible format — whether digital or in a notebook.
Build a Local Support Network
Identify trusted people who live near your loved one who can check in and provide support — family, friends, neighbors, or community members. Elder Services agencies (known as ASAPs) can also be a valuable resource for adults 60+ who meet eligibility guidelines. Limited services can be provided through Elder Services with their state funded programs. Those on MassHealth Standard (Medicaid) have access to more in-home services at no cost. Services may include:
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Meal assistance or delivery
- Personal care support
- Grocery shopping
- Transportation to appointments
- Emergency response buttons
- Medication support
The Personal Care Attendant (PCA) program allows you to hire someone you know to help care for you, with the worker being paid through the state. Eligibility is based on MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth coverage and the need for hands-on assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, transfers, ambulation, incontinence care, or feeding.
If your loved one is a veteran, they may also be eligible for in-home services through veteran-specific benefits. To learn more, contact a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) in your loved one’s town to inquire about eligibility. Some families choose to supplement Elder Services by privately paying for in-home care through an agency, depending on their situation, to ensure consistent coverage.
Use Technology to Stay Connected
Technology can make long-distance caregiving easier — but always discuss devices/tools with your loved one first to ensure they feel comfortable. Helpful options include:
- Video calls (FaceTime, Zoom): to visually check in, see how your loved one looks, and connect face to face
- Joining medical appointments remotely: via speakerphone or video to stay informed virtually
- Regular check-ins: so they don’t hesitate to reach out when something comes up
- Home cameras (with permission): for safety monitoring
- Smart home devices (Alexa/Google Home): for medication reminders and communication
- Pharmacy bubble-pack medications: to simplify medication management
- Medical alert devices: wearing a Lifeline/Life Alert button is an additional safety service recommended for someone with fall risks
It is recommended that you check in with your loved one regularly, as it is common for elders to not want to bother their caregiver. The tools above can bring peace of mind — for both you and your loved one.
Navigating Resistance to Help
Accepting help can be difficult for many older adults because it may feel like a loss of independence. As a caregiver, it can be challenging to balance ensuring safety while honoring your loved one’s autonomy.
Lead with empathy. Listen. Validate their feelings. If they are hesitant, continue gentle conversations over time rather than forcing immediate decisions. Trust and respect go a long way.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
Caregiving — especially from a distance — can be emotionally and physically draining. Many caregivers put their own needs last, but self-care is essential. Ignoring your well-being can lead to burnout, illness, or health concerns down the road.
Talk with people you trust, seek professional support if needed, and build in small moments of rest. Even five minutes of deep breathing can make a difference. Remind yourself: you are doing something incredibly meaningful — and it’s okay to be kind to yourself in the process.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Like any journey, having a map makes the path easier to navigate. At Senior Resource Center, Inc., we are here to support you and your loved one every step of the way.
Author: Zaneta Premik
Case Manager at Senior Resource Center Inc.
Zaneta graduated Fitchburg State University in 2014 with a human services degree and a minor in psychology. She worked for Springwell Elder Services for 6.5 years as a case manager and benefit application specialist. She graduated from Salem State University with her master’s in social work in 2021. She became a licensed independent clinical social worker February 2025.Zaneta worked for NVNA & Hospice as a hospice medical social worker for four years. She provided crucial support and helped patients and their families get connected with resources. During her time there, she got certified as an end-of-life doula and an advanced palliative hospice social worker.
