For some parents, their nurturing side is pretty much always on. Except maybe when they need to tell their child to pick up their toys for the one-hundredth time – I mean come on! Ok, I digress…As I was saying, parents look out for their kids, significant others, and their friends. There also comes a time when our older family members – our parents, aunts, and inlaws – start showing signs that they need our help as much, if not more, than our own children.
Where are we to turn to when we need our help from miles away, though? I know somebody who just recently went through this and didn’t know where to head. His mother fell and injured her hip. He works full-time running his own business along with his wife and they did not have resources to take care of her themselves. They needed an outside party to assist. The problem? He didn’t know where to find that assistance. I gave him a list of resources that I’m going to give you now and hope they prove useful to you should the situation ever arise, especially now with travel being so challenging.

• Needymeds.org – Provides a list of free and low-cost clinics in your area. It also connects you to medical programs that will assist with prescription drug costs, dental, and substance abuse treatments. Plus, they have a list of organizations that provide transportation services.
• Cancer.org – Many resources are listed on this useful website including how to get rides to cancer treatment. You can also volunteer to be a driver here.
• Lotsahelpinghands.com – This is a free service that allows you to look for volunteers to help your elderly friends and family.
• Homeinstead.com – They have over 600 locations nationwide and they run the gamut in terms of services like running errands, housekeeping, and meal prep. Rates run about $18 – 24 per hour.
• Caregiver.va.gov – This is for the veterans in the house. This resource offers a plethora of information like caregiver support lines, home-based care services, and ways to plan ahead for when emergencies strike.
• Meals On Wheels – I had the opportunity to volunteer with this wonderful organization to distribute food and what a rewarding experience! I encourage you to find out how your loved one can benefit from receiving meals delivered to their door for free.
• Your Own Town – Your very own city’s senior center may offer a ton of services like legal assistance, Dial-A-Ride curb to curb transportation, scam awareness, and pharmacy education.

I have a lot more to share that can’t be summed up in one post. So sign up for the newsletter below (yes, this is a shameless plug) to find out more ways to get help including how to manage their banking and receive financial assistance for your elderly loved ones.