How can I check on my loved one daily from far away?

Scheduled video calls, a medical alert device with check-in features, and a local neighbor or care professional who visits regularly.

Can I take family leave to care for a loved one in another state?

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act may allow eligible employees unpaid, job-protected leave to care for a parent with a serious health condition. Check with your employer.

Who can be my local point of contact?

A geriatric care manager, home care agency supervisor, or trusted neighbor can serve as the local contact.

Family Transition LinkGuiding Ohio Families Through Every Transition Call us(513) 226-9052

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Family Support

Long-Distance Caregiving: 10 Ways to Help From Afar

How to stay informed, coordinate local help, and plan visits when your loved one lives in Southwest Ohio and you don't.

October 11, 20265 min read

10 practical steps

Get legal authority: financial and health care POA plus a HIPAA release — see Ohio legal documents.
Build a local team: a trusted neighbor, faith community, and friends.
Hire a geriatric care manager as your local eyes — see what a care manager does.
Keep a shared file: medications, doctors, insurance and account info.
Use a shared calendar for appointments and family visits.
Add safety tech: medical alert device, video calls, smart medication dispensers.
Call the doctor's office to be listed as a contact.
Plan visits with purpose: appointments, a home safety walk-through, a pantry check.
Connect with the Area Agency on Aging for local programs like meals and PASSPORT.
Care for yourself — read our burnout prevention guide.

Signs it's time for more help

Unpaid bills, weight loss, spoiled food, new dents in the car, or missed calls.

We help long-distance families every week. Call (513) 226-9052 or browse our directory.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check on my loved one daily from far away?: Scheduled video calls, a medical alert device with check-in features, and a local neighbor or care professional who visits regularly.
Can I take family leave to care for a loved one in another state?: The federal Family and Medical Leave Act may allow eligible employees unpaid, job-protected leave to care for a parent with a serious health condition. Check with your employer.
Who can be my local point of contact?: A geriatric care manager, home care agency supervisor, or trusted neighbor can serve as the local contact.

Long-Distance Caregiving: 10 Ways to Help From Afar

10 practical steps

Signs it's time for more help

Frequently asked questions

More in Family Support

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