So often, when crisis hits, a family can be caught unawares by this emergency situation. As a result, adult children are blindsided by not knowing where to find critical documents necessary for deciding on the care for their elderly parents. Therefore, they feel handcuffed by not having access to assets or important essential documents that are needed. However, it is never too early to start that ‘just in case’ file.
While the holidays are a wonderful time for family sharing and bonding, it is also an opportunity for adult children to help organize essential information for their elderly parents. Therefore, we think that in addition to feasting and spreading joy this holiday season, all of us, whether we be seniors, caregivers or potential caregivers, should take the opportunity to get some ‘ducks in a row’. Though it can be daunting, it is necessary to organize those all important documents and bits of information. Consequently, David York Agency has compiled a handy checklist and a small packet of worksheets to assist in this task. Conveniently, Both are accessible through these links or on the Caregiver Resources page of the David York Agency website.
Essential Documents & Emergency Information Worksheets (pdf version)
Essential Documents & Emergency Information Checklist (pdf version
Here is a quick look at what these documents include:
-
Professionals List – All Contact Information for:
- Doctors: Primary Care and Specialists
- Accountant
- Attorney
- Financial Advisor
- Insurance Brokers
-
Important Documents Packet (Originals and/or Copies):
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- Driver’s License
- Marriage Certificate
- Divorce Certificate
- Passport
- Medical Information
- Allergies
- Medications
- Treatments
- Major Operations
- Immunization Records
- Medicare/Medicaid/Insurance Card
- Life Insurance Policies
- Military Discharge Papers
- Deeds
- Titles
- Tax Returns for last 6 years
- Instructions on Location of all files
-
Financial Accounts List – All Contact Information and Account Numbers for:
- Bank Accounts
- Investment/Brokerage Accounts
- Stocks
- Bonds
- CDs
- Credit/Debit Cards
-
Financial Assets List:
- Car Ownership
- Mortgage Documents
- Real Estate Holdings
- Loans Owed or Owed to them
- Tax Returns
- Insurance Policies
- Home
- Auto
- Health
- Long Term Care
- Life
- Original Invoices for Important Possessions
- Partnership Documents
- Jewelry and Valuables
- Safe Combination and Directions
- Location of Safety Deposit Key
-
Sources of Income:
- Annuities
- Social Security
- Pensions
- Annual Distributions from Retirement Accounts
- VA Benefits
- Disability Payments
-
Recurring Bills:
- Mortgage
- Loans
- Utilities
- Telephone
- Electric
- Gas
- Insurance Premiums (monthly & quarterly)
- Car Lease
- Annual Expenses (i.e. home alarm)
- Deliveries (i.e. newspaper, milk)
-
Computerized Information:
- Email Accounts and Passwords
- Password for Computer
- Recurring Online Billing
-
Estate Planning Documents:
- Will
- Special Instructions regarding personal property
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Advanced Healthcare Directive/Living Will
- Healthcare Proxy
- Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
- Retirement Plans
- Disability Plans
- Governmental Benefits for which they are eligible
-
End of Life Arrangements:
- Cemetery Plot Ownership
- Pre-Planned Burial Papers
- Personal Statement regarding burial services
Most Important
All this information be easily accessible clearly labeled and a trusted person know its location. Also, if you choose to keep this all stored on a computer, make sure a back up is made and a print out is kept in a location known to a close friend or relative. As you know, healthcare decisions are often quite pressing, so knowing where to find medical records and decision makers in time can be crucial. With respect to assets, at times the government takes possession of unclaimed assets. As such, while you might be able to get a hold of something belonging to you that was overlooked, it is not always an easy process. Therefore, it is best not to get into that situation and have everything organized ahead of time.
David York Agency Home Healthcare Can Help Seniors
At David York Agency, we understand the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly and are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and down. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies that provide in home healthcare services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
In conclusion, when home healthcare becomes necessary, David York Agency provides skilled home health aide services. David York Home Healthcare Agency can satisfy all your questions and would be happy to give you more information and discuss your case with you.
For more helpful tips and information, check out our blog or contact us today.
