About Me  -  navigating the never-ending journey of keeping my mother, who has dementia, safe from halfway across the world.

Here’s my story:

I’ve been caring for my elderly mother with Alzheimer’s Dementia from halfway across the world. She lives in the UK, and I’m in the USA. I’ve managed her care remotely for over 4 years now.

I created this website to document my journey and to help others navigate the extremely challenging path of caring for someone with dementia. I created it so we can help each other. 

There was no support for long-distance caregiving—no help from healthcare or government, and no forums focused on it. I was on my own, with no support from those around me. People told me it wasn’t possible, but I refused to accept that.

Many suggested I move closer, but after building a life in California for over 30 years, that wasn’t an option. So, I embraced the challenge of keeping mama at home, safe and comfortable and independent. It's not easy. When it works, it's brilliant. When it doesn't - I collapse, sob uncontrollably, question myself  at the situation then pick myself up and get ready to fight again. 

Despite many, many challenges, I’m dedicated to improving care outcomes.

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Dementia is tough—mama doesn't realise she had/has it and believed she could manage on her own. Over the past four years, I’ve found ways to make her life easier (and mine) without making her feel dependent.

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First, I love gadgets. I love anything that can make life easier. Before dementia, I slowly introduced a new gadget each time I came back to Scotland with rolling eyes from everyone around me. I understood this - they were not used to it. I first introduced a jar opener with a grip - mama loved it and used it all the time. Others would comment, oh where did you get this? I then installed pull out drawers to ooohs and ahhs. Mama was in her 80's and I wanted to make life easier for for her. 

Caring is difficult, and from afar, even more so, but gadgets and technology can help. From simple phone adjustments to voice-activated devices, I can suggest ways to keep your loved ones independent at home. It can be manageable with the right resources and technology, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Don’t be afraid of technology. If you can turn on your computer, you’re 80% there!

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My aim is to improve independent living, enhance the flexibility of available support, and expand awareness of the technology available for those in need of care. It’s frustrating, but also invaluable for peace of mind when it works.

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Please bear in mind that all these purchases were made over the course of four years. A lot was trial and error. I tried different products, saw what worked, and made adjustments as I went along when they stopped working. I took care of my mother from a long distance for four years, and these items made it easier for me to ensure she was safe. Essentially, my goal is to keep my mum, who has dementia, in her own home for as long as possible.

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I don’t have medical advice or a degree in medicine, but I am an expert in taking care of MY mama from long distance, and that’s what this site is about. If there’s one tip here that can help—brilliant. If more than one, even better.

I also offer consultations to help those who want to implement technology to care for their loved ones. You can find more information about that here.

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​Take a look at Dementia Friendly Products page.  And share your experiences and how you've managed to care for your loved one on the forum or the blog. We need to help each other if no-one else will.

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