My parents live about 500 miles away from me and my family in Kansas City. I talk to them regularly on the phone, but lately it seems as if mother has had some confusions from our last converstation. And father had a severe stroke about 5 months ago, so I'm worried that they are getting to a point where they might need someone to come check on them. What if my mom can't care for him anymore? How can I help my parents and make sure that they are being taken care of properly from far away?
In addition, I think it's important for you to start "taking notes" of all of your conversations with your parents. Sometimes, when we systematically look at the issues, it gives us a clearer understanding of the presenting problems. In other words, write down your concerns/examples each conversation you have to begin a "timeline." Then, you can take this "list" and consult a private or community professional to help guide you in assessing and managing your parent's needs.
If you can get your parents to sign releases to give you permission to talk to their physicians, that would be great. Then you can find out more details as well as express your concern re: your parent's functioning. Contact me if you would like more information on that, as I have a form I can send you or you can download for free off my site.
Also, start to look into a power of attorney for health decisions to make sure that if your parent needs help, you have the legal position to make decisions.
Good luck!
Stephanie Erickson
Jim
Best of luck,
Bill
Hope it helps!