Seniors can help themselves and their family by organizing important documents as well as medical, financial and other personal information so it can be easily accessed in the event of a medical emergency or to reduce stress when critical life decisions need to be made—and ensure that a senior’s wishes are fulfilled.
Asking a family member or friend to help will make the process easier. Consider putting essential information and the location of key documents in a large binder and organizing copies of relevant documents in expandable files. Seniors can then review these documents with loved ones while they are home so they know where to find them when needed. If you all work together on this project, this will take a huge burden off your parent’s shoulders too. Review the following information for your binder: This is a great start, however, you may have additional items unique to you to include: birth certificate, social security records, health and life insurance policy & agent numbers, names and addresses of primary care physician and medical specialists and other medical history.
Special arrangements made for health care: funeral pre-need arrangements, medicare documents, trust documents & will (review every 2 years for relevance)
Sources of income and assets, bank statements and safe deposit box locations, mortgage papers, investment records, negotiable securities, credit card information, last three years income tax returns , loan papers, military discharge papers (dd214), adoption papers, divorce papers, name addresses, phone and email address of family, friends to contact, don’t forget those computer passwords.
Be sure to keep current with financial records because medical and long-term care can deplete assets and might change eligibility status for Medicaid benefits. Current financial records need to be maintained to provide proof of eligibility.
Congratulations on getting organized!!
Provided by Kathryn Glenn, owner, of Glenn Fiduciary Services 775 West Grand Ave, Suite H, Grover Beach. Call for an appointment at 805.904.6670.
