My 88-year old uncle, who has Alzheimer’s, nominated me a few years ago as his NOK (he is a widower and has no children of his own) and I have lasting Power of Attorney for both Health & Welfare and Property & Finance. He lacks capacity to a certain extent, mainly beyond the moment as his memory is the primary thing affected thus far, although he has a range of other physical ailments. I am increasingly supporting him administratively with such things as looking after his bank accounts, coordinating carers from a local care agency, accompanying him to medical appointments when I can and generally overseeing what is going on so I can explain things when he gets confused. So far so good(!)
I live in Cambridgeshire, whilst my uncle lives in Dorset – this complicates things massively! I have coined the term “Remote Administrative Carer” to try to describe what I do but it is a tough role with many frustrations – albeit a satisfying role in terms of feeling I am making a difference. But it is lonely, and I have so far not met found anyone else trying to do something similar. I’m sure I can’t be the only one, so is there anyone out there who can share the frustrations and successes, as well as any good ideas or things to avoid? Or does anyone know of any support groups specifically designed for those of doing our caring remotely?
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