Long-distance caregiving: how to support a parent from afar

Long-distance caregiving can be especially challenging. When you are not physically present to check on a parent regularly, it can be difficult to know whether they are safe, healthy, and receiving the support they need. Building a strong support system and having clear plans in place are essential for successful caregiving from a distance.

Why long-distance caregiving is complicated

Without regular in-person contact, caregivers may struggle to assess what is really happening day to day. Important questions to consider include:

Does your parent seem isolated, depressed, or anxious?

Are they behaving differently or showing signs of confusion?

Do they have enough help at home, and is that help reliable?

Are service providers or caregivers properly vetted?

Understanding the answers to these questions can help you identify gaps in care and address concerns early.

Staying in touch and informed

Regular communication is critical when caregiving from afar. Phone calls, video chats, and scheduled check-ins can provide insight into your parent’s well-being, but they may not tell the whole story.

Consider whether your parent is taking advantage of community resources and support services. Many families are unaware of what is available locally.

An aging life care professional (formerly known as a geriatric care manager) can be especially helpful for long-distance caregivers. These professionals can:

Evaluate a parent’s living situation

Recommend appropriate services

In some cases, it may also be worth discussing whether relocating closer to you or another family member could provide a better long-term arrangement.

Strengthening your backup plan

Even if the current care arrangement is working, it is important to have a backup or “next step” plan.

Think about how responsibilities can be shared so caregiving does not fall entirely on you. Even family members who live far away may be able to help by:

Paying bills online

Meeting with a financial advisor

Coordinating medical appointments

Managing care schedules

Visiting periodically to assess needs

Organizing important documents

Researching respite care or adult day care options

If a sibling is the primary caregiver, consider how you can support them to prevent burnout.

Using technology to keep tabs

Technology can play a valuable role in long-distance caregiving. Aging-in-place and monitoring tools may help older adults remain independent while giving caregivers peace of mind.

Depending on the situation, technology may help you:

Confirm your parent is eating regularly

Ensure medications are taken on time

Detect falls or emergencies

Get alerts when something is wrong

These tools can supplement, but not replace, human support.

Staying alert to risks and red flags

When you are not nearby, it is important to remain vigilant. Be cautious of new individuals in your parent’s life, such as a caregiver or “friend,” who may be overly controlling or attempt to isolate them from family.

Unusual behavior, sudden changes in finances, or secrecy can be warning signs of exploitation or scams. Knowing common red flags can help you intervene before serious harm occurs.

Long-distance caregiving requires extra planning, communication, and support. By staying informed, building a strong care network, and using available resources and technology, caregivers can better support aging parents while managing responsibilities from afar.