CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

If you manage care from a distance, you may need to find some creative ways to solve problems. You may want to subscribe to the newspaper in the community where your loved one lives, since new programs and services are often featured there. If your relative has a religious affiliation, you may want to contact his or her church or synagogue to find out what services they may offer and to apprise them of your interest and participation in your loved one's care and wellbeing. Frequently the spiritual needs of older people are ignored at that time in their lives when they should be intensified. The clergy often are willing to make home visits or to visit people residing in long-term care facilities to provide pastoral care. Members of a congregation frequently have well-developed telephone reassurance programs or "friendly visitor" services.

You may want to entertain the idea of getting a pet for your relative. An easy to care for pet, like a parakeet, might alleviate loneliness and brighten up the care recipient's days.