After the initial discussion with your parent of introducing the idea of an assisted living facility the next step is to prepare a personal data record. It’s important to oversee the affairs of your aging parent, ideally with their approval, and before a health crisis develops.
9 Steps to Have Everything you Need for Your Aging Parent
1. Power of Attorney
It’s essential to know what finances are available to your parents. Knowing how to access them is another crucial factor, such as their saving accounts and pension funds. These help to pay for their living expenses and outstanding debts should be discussed. Lastly, confer a financial consultant to help make their money last.
2. Legal Documents
In case of your parent becoming socially impaired or in hospice care, estate plans and wills should be over overseen. The executor and nominated healthcare proxy should be known and making sure the wills and estate plans are up-to-date.
3. Retirement Plans and Medical Insurance
Be aware of what insurance plan your parent is on, keep in mind that Medicare does not cover long-term care. Stay informed on their long-term care insurance and what is necessary for the policy to begin coverage.
4. Birth certificates and Travel Documents
Important personal documents should be readily available for legal and medical purposes.
5. Motor Vehicle Documents
If your parent can no longer drive it might be necessary to transfer vehicle ownership in a situation where possession or disposal of the vehicle is required.
6. Guard Valuables
Family heirlooms and valued pieces should be held safely in a secure place, such as a safe.
7. Medications and Allergy Information
A list of specific medications and how they are administered, such as crushed or mixed, is imperative to your parents health. Also, allergy information regarding penicillin or other life threatening medical conditions should be made known.
8. Funeral and Burial Plans
This may seem like the most difficult topic to address but it’s crucial to know your parents wishes. You can reduce financial burdens by planning ahead.
9. Special Wishes
As your parents age they may request to visit a long-time friend or a special place. Try to carry out these wishes knowing it soothes their soul and makes them happy.
Key Conclusions:
- Pursue power of attorney over your parent’s finances
- Oversee your parent’s will and testament records
- Maintain your parent’s retirement plans and medical insurance
- Passports and birth certificates should be easily available
- Transfer of vehicle ownership should be considered
- Family heirlooms and precious items should be secure
- Know how medications are best administered and any allergic conditions your parent has
- Ask your parent what their funeral and burial plans are
- Agree to the wishes of your parent to soothe them and make them happy
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.
To read Part 3 of the series click here: https://www.entrustdesoto.com/blog/caring-for-your-elderly-parent-part-3/
