The holiday season is a time to celebrate with loved ones, share stories, and enjoy quality time together. It’s also an opportunity to check in on the well-being of elderly family members, particularly if you live far away. Whether you’re visiting parents or grandparents this summer, take some time to ensure they’re happy, healthy, and safe.

To help you do so, we have created a handy checklist tailored for Australian families to help you check-in on your loved ones during the festive season.

What To Keep an Eye on During Your Visit

1. Physical Health and Well-being

• • Mobility and balance: Are they moving around comfortably, or do you notice signs of unsteadiness? Check for unexplained bruises that may indicate falls.
  • Medication management: Is their medication routine organised? Look out for expired prescriptions or duplicates that might need addressing.
  • Nutrition and hydration: Open the fridge—are there fresh, nutritious foods or mostly processed snacks? Staying hydrated is also critical in Australia’s summer heat.

2. Home Safety and Accessibility

1. • Living conditions: Is their home clean and orderly? Check for hazards like loose rugs, cluttered walkways, or dim lighting. 
   • Supportive aids: Make sure they have any for necessary equipment, like bathroom grab rails or non-slip mats, and ensure they are properly installed.

 For a more detailed review of home safety, download our Free Home Safety Checklist to ensure their environment is as safe as possible.

3. Mental Health and Social Life

1. • Changes in behaviour: Watch for signs of withdrawal or mood changes. Are they still interested in hobbies and activities they once enjoyed?
   • Social connections: Are they keeping up with friends, family, or community events? Loneliness can be a significant hazard for seniors, affecting both their mental and physical health.

4. Financial Stability

• • Bills and mail: Notice if unopened bills or overdue notices are piling up—it could be a sign that your older loved one is struggling with managing their finances.

What To Do Before You Leave

• Address immediate concerns: Discuss any issues you notice with your loved one and offer solutions. Remember to respect their preferences and decisions—they are in charge of their life and home. To help facilitate these conversations, consider using our Free RightConversations Guide, which provides practical tips and ideas for effective communication about family caregiving. This guide can empower you to approach these discussions with empathy and clarity, ensuring that everyone feels heard and supported.
• Set up support systems: Consider arranging meal deliveries or regular check-ins with a home care agency like Right at Home. Technology can also be a great ally; setting up video calls can help you stay connected and monitor their well-being.
• Leave emergency contacts: Make sure your older loved one has a visible list of important phone numbers, such as neighbours, friends, local family members, or health services, in case of emergencies.

After the Holidays: How to Help From Afar

• Plan regular check-ins: Schedule regular phone or video calls to stay connected. Ask your older loved one specific questions about their health, daily activities, and social interactions.
• Leverage technology: Set up tools like medication reminders or home monitoring systems to stay updated on their well-being.
• Coordinate with local helpers: Build relationships with neighbours, nearby friends, or local relatives who can provide real-time updates and help when needed.
• Professional care options: Consider engaging in-home care services or a geriatric care manager to oversee health needs and provide extra support.

Talking With Other Family Caregivers

Family gatherings are a good time to discuss caregiving responsibilities. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even frustrated if the load feels uneven, but approaching conversations with a shared focus on your loved one’s needs can help. To keep everyone on the same page and ensure nothing is overlooked, use our Free Family Action Planner to organise tasks that need to be delegated to family members or service providers. If you’re unable to provide certain types of support, ask siblings or relatives to step in, whether it’s handling financial arrangements or researching care services.

Caring for Your Loved Ones from Afar

Long-distance caregiving comes with unique challenges, especially when balancing it with the demands of your own life. However, with careful planning and the right resources, you can ensure that your older loved ones are safe, healthy, and engaged, even from afar. Remember, the best gift you can give this holiday season is your love and attention—make the most of your visit and set up a support system that lasts long after the holiday lights dim.

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you or someone you love, contact your local Right at Home office today. 

Right at Home Australia is a leading provider of quality in-home care. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve ensuring the Right Care, Right at Home™.  We support people living with complex and post-operative care needs, dementia and cognitive decline, seniors, and adults living with a disability including NDIS participants. Our tailored services help clients to remain safe and independent in their homes. We are an Approved Provider under the Aged Care Act, meaning we can provide quality support at home under a government-funded home care package. We also offer private pay arrangements for those who do not have government funding, or who wish to pay privately for top-up care. Right at Home is all about you. We are available 24/7 so contact your local office today. You can also call our national number on 1300 363 802. 

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