How can I help as a long-distance caregiver?

It can be hard to be away from a loved one who has cancer, but you can still give real support as a problem-solver and care coordinator from a distance.

Steps that help include developing a relationship with one or two key members of the health care team (such as a nurse, social worker, or patient educator); creating a list of people who live near your loved one whom you could call day or night; sharing your home, work, and cell numbers with the care team and local helpers; and looking into volunteer visitors, adult day care, or meal delivery in the area.

Your loved one's care team can point you to local services and tell you how best to stay involved from afar.