Three Apps to Help You Care For Loved Ones Far Away

This article was written exclusively for our SCT readers, by our good friend, Karen Weeks of Elderwellness.net!

One of the amazing things about technology is how it benefits people in ways unimaginable just a few years ago. Take caregiver apps for example. These powerful tools make it possible for you to play an active role in your aging relative’s daily support, even if she lives hundreds or thousands of miles away. In this post we’ll look at these three of these applications and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Caregiver Buddy

Knowing about the latest senior care advances can help you ensure your loved one receives the best possible support, even if someone else handles her daily caregiving tasks. That’s why Caregiver Buddy is such a great app. You’ll always have the most current treatment and research information available with it on your side, along with 24/7 access to expert advice should you have questions or concerns.

Honor

Choosing the right caregiver for your loved one requires more than finding someone willing to take the job, which is where an app named “Honor” comes into the picture. According to USA Today, it screens potential matches based on crucial criteria such as physical abilities, training requirements, and allergies.

For example, let’s say your loved one weighs 150 pounds, suffers from Alzheimer’s, and has a dog. The app will connect you with caregivers who are strong enough to provide assistance, are trained in Alzheimer’s care, and have no dog-related allergies.

Caregivers in the Community (CINC)

This app enables caregiving professionals in the same geographical area to share tips and provide emotional support for each other, according to AARP, the organization which developed the resource. Burnout is the primary reason why caregivers leave the field. Providing them with much-needed personal and professional backup can help them to provide the best possible care, while giving you much-needed peace of mind.

All three of these apps can make caring for seniors easier, even when distance separates you from those on your mind. But sometimes it’s impossible to measure the gulf between you and another person in miles. Let’s look at how to bridge gaps stemming from addiction and other personal issues.

Understanding Substance Abuse

Some still think of addiction in purely moral terms; “he could get clean if he really wanted to.” But, while moral and psychological factors do play a role, the disorder itself is a “chronic, relapsing brain disease,” according to the National Institute of Health (NIH). Does this mean that you should let go of whatever enmity you have towards your loved one? No, not at all. however, it does mean that you should look at her condition as caused by a complex array of factors, some of which are outside her control. Looking at the situation from this perspective can help to promote healing in both yourself and the other person. Here are some tips for rebuilding the relationship going forward:

• Realize that forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing or forgetting whatever misdeeds the person has committed. Rather, it means letting go of past pain and seeking the best possible outcome for everyone.
• Start with small steps. No one expects you and your loved one to reconcile overnight. The process may take a lifetime. Don’t rush it.
• Protect yourself. There’s no virtue in victimhood. Withdraw from the other person if she causes you mental or physical harm.

The tips in this post can help you to take care of others while doing the same for yourself. Use them with that goal in mind; and best of luck.