How to Stay Connected to Your Elderly Parents While Living Far Away

Moving away from your parents can be a challenge, especially when you want to remain connected. And if the distance is due to work, then staying in touch with them is even more difficult because of time zone differences and other factors. But there are some ways that you can still maintain close ties with your parents while living far away! We'll discuss these different methods below to not feel like a bad son or daughter.

Skype

You can see your parents' faces and hear their voices. It helps them feel like you're really there with them, even if you're not physically present. And it's much cheaper than traveling all the way to visit! Skype with them at least once a week to show that you're thinking of them and haven't forgotten about them. And if the time difference is appropriate, it might be worth scheduling some video chats during your lunch break to keep your parents from worrying too much when they can't get a hold of you for a day or two.

Send letters and postcards

Who doesn't love getting letters? And it will help your parents feel like you're never really that far away from them because they'll still receive mail from their son/daughter! Plus, the postcard is a great way to let your mom know how much she means to you when there's no time for an in-person visit. Include pictures of where you live and what you do every day so that they can visualize where their son or daughter lives now. This will make it seem less foreign and more familiar than just words on paper would if they didn't have any photos to go along with the story.

Weekly family group call

Instead of Skyping with your parents, try setting up a weekly family group call. This way, everyone can talk and catch up on what's been going on in their lives without being too worried about the time zone difference between you all because it'll happen at one set time every week. Let your mom know that she doesn't have to be lonely now that her son/daughter has moved far away - even if they're living abroad! The phone makes it easier for them to still hear from you regularly and share in this important part of your life.

Send gift baskets

It's a nice gesture to send your mom some goodies every now and then, especially if she has been feeling down about you living far away. Chocolate is always good for cheering up someone who may not be feeling well or as happy lately. And it will make her son/daughter feel like they're still close even when the distance makes things more difficult on their end. If you’re wondering whether care centers allow certain items in their facilities, you can learn more here.

A gift basket with items of comfort such as fuzzy socks, slippers, tea cozies, etc., are thoughtful ways to show that you care too while also solving practical problems in your mother's life such as stocking up on new linens! There are other holiday gifts that sons/daughters can give their elderly parents to make up for the distance, like postcards, ornaments, and other small trinkets that will remind your parents of you.

By utilizing the above tips, you and your parents will always feel close to each other until the next time you can plan a fun visit!