Why Long distance Love may not be for you
The excitement of getting to see your loved ones during the holidays is always unmatched, especially when you're travelling home to Africa from the diaspora. Being able to spend quality time with family and friends, sharing great meals, and making unforgettable memories is truly priceless. However, as the festive season draws to a close, the fear, apprehension, and anxiety of leaving can be overwhelming. As if one doesn’t have enough on their mind, there is the worry about the demands of our jobs, our businesses, and about caring for aging parents and loved ones from a distance.
This situation is further amplified for the sandwich generation of caregivers, individuals who are caught between caring for their elderly parents while also providing for their own families For Africans, there is the added challenge of different cultural expectations and financial responsibilities, combined with trying to manage two different homes - the foreign country they reside in and their home country.
Managing two different homes can be overwhelming, It is important to establish a support system, utilizing reliable and dependable help and resources at one’s disposal. Here are the top 7 ways to to provide and manage care for loved ones in Africa that may help ease the anxiety and reduce stress levels:
Communication is key - Ensure that you maintain constant communication with your loved ones back home. This will help you stay informed about their needs, and you can provide support where necessary. Stay in touch with your loved ones through phone calls, video chats, and messaging apps to ensure that you are up-to-date on their needs and well-being. Involve children by encouraging them to be a part of the communication process and let them know the importance of staying in touch with family.
Plan ahead - Before you leave, make sure that all necessary arrangements are in place, such as scheduling medical appointments and arranging for transportation. Make sure you plan in advance for any trips to Africa. This will help you avoid last-minute stress and ensure that everything is in place for the care of your loved ones.
Get support - Don't hesitate to seek support from family members, friends, or professional care providers. This will help you avoid burnout and ensure that your loved ones receive the best care possible. Make sure that your loved ones have access to resources like caregivers, doctors, and community organizations that can provide support while you are away.
Stay organized - Keep important documents and information, such as medical records and emergency contact information, in one place that is easily accessible.
Have open and honest conversations - These hard but necessary conversations with family members and loved ones help with managing expectations and responsibilities.
Set up a budget - Managing finances is also a key aspect of caring for aging loved ones. Setting up a budget and exploring available services on the continent can help alleviate some of the financial burden.
Take care of yourself - Caring for loved ones can be stressful, so it's important to prioritize your own well-being. Make sure you take time to rest, exercise, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
“A family is like a forest, when you are outside it is dense, when you are inside you see that each tree has its place”
While caring for loved ones on different continents can be challenging, irrespective of the distance and ease of access, with the right support and mindset, you can provide excellent care for your loved ones in Africa while reducing the stress and anxiety that can come with long-distance caregiving..
Remember to cherish the time spent with loved ones, both at home and abroad and remember to prioritize self-care along the way.
