Emergency Preparation for Older Love Ones
It is always a good thing to be prepared (at least the Girl Scouts think so!).
None of us want to have to frantically search for important information or documents during an emergency situation, especially when we are likely already frazzled, worried, and anxious. Our older loved ones often have a lot of important information that we may need access to in an emergency.
Having all these documents accessible and in one place helps eliminate last minute scrambling as well as lost time trying to track down such information when needed. Collect and place the documents in an easy to identify folder, such as a bright red or yellow one clearly labeled and put it in a logical and accessible place such as in a hall table drawer, or bedside. Make sure that your emergency contact knows about the existence of and location of the folder so that they know how to retrieve it as needed. It is probably a good idea to also make sure your emergency contact has a set of keys to your house, as well as any alarm or security code. While it may take time to prepare and locate all this information, it will be well worth it for the peace of mind.
Consider taking the time to prepare an “emergency information” folder of important documents for your loved ones and yourself.
Some items to include:
- Any medical instructions, such as a living will, health care proxy, advance directives, POLST or DNR forms
- An up-to-date list of medications and what they are taken for
- Copies of health insurance/social security cards and ID (driver’s license, passport)
- A list of all medical providers and their contact info
- Contact info for people to notify in case of emergency
- Notice of any allergies (medication or food)
- Instructions for pet care (who can physically take care of a pet when needed, feeding instructions, vet info)
- Pre-planned funeral arrangements
Other documents to consider including:
- A list of passwords for important websites, such as any financial institutions, social media accounts, email, online accounts
- List of bank accounts
- Contact info for professional services engaged (lawyer, accountant, Aging Life Care Manager®, housekeeper, business manager, landscaper)
- Copies of birth/marriage certificates
- List of insurance policies (auto, home, life)
- Retirement benefits (401k, IRA, pension)
- List of bills that you regularly pay (utility, phone, cable, credit cards, insurance)