Technology for the Modern Day Caregiver

As a member of a family that is spread across the country or world, you may find it difficult to keep in touch with everyone and stay connected. As a caregiver for your loved one, it is important to communicate with friends and family—even if they are thousands of miles away. With today’s technology, staying connected is easier than ever.

Phones

Phones do more today than they did 30 years ago. They can send a text message, surf the web, run multiple apps at once and take better photos than a camera from 10 years ago. But phones still feature the one capability that is most essential—speaking with others. Make a quick phone call or send a brief text message to your sister in a different time zone to update her on mom’s illness. Log onto Facebook and post a status updating requesting well-wishes and prayers for mom. Phones are a powerful tool to stay connected during a difficult time, so utilize them to their fullest potential.

Social Media

Facebook is used by millions daily for many different purposes. It can be used for connecting with family and posting about the status of your mother. Use social media to connect with old friends and talk about your grief or how you are coping as a caregiver. It is also a great way to seek advice; you may be new at caregiving but your best friend from college may not be and may have tips. Share stories, find support and ask for help on social media. It can make you feel connected when you’re at home caring for mom and feeling more disconnected than ever.

Online Support Sites

There are many websites for support and grief. CaringBridge.org is a great resource that works like a social media site to connect friends and families during the illness of a family member. As a caregiver, CaringBridge is a great tool for sharing your story, seeking support and connecting with others experiencing the same situation as you.

With all that technology has to offer today, there are many ways to stay connected when caring for your parent who is nearing end-of-life. The internet is a powerful tool that can help in so many ways for answers, advice and tips for being the best caregiver, dealing with stress and coping with loss and grief.

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