Helping Your Parents with Paperwork

Many adult children who live a distance away from elderly parents often feel there is not much they can do to help with day-to-day care.  However, one of the things experts suggest that can be done long-distance is to help mom or dad get their paperwork organized.

Initially the job requires more time and energy, but once you have everything gathered together, you will just need to make sure to keep it updated.  In fact, having all of your parents’ pertinent information up-to-date and in one place, will make caregiving long-distance much easier as it allows you to more quickly make decisions and respond to a crisis. 

Paperwork should include maintaining and managing current information about your parent’s health and medical care including the type of medications and the dosage they are taking.  Other important information includes details regarding sources of income and assets, i.e. bank accounts, pensions, life insurances, IRAs, 401 (k)s and other investments, their home and monthly liabilities. 

To do long-distance, it may be easier to schedule a visit or two to begin the process.  Also, if you do not already know, ask mom or dad if they have a will, and if so, make sure it is in order.  Furthermore, discuss with them the benefits of drawing up a durable power of attorney, which legally gives the person named on the document the right to handle their financial decisions if the need should arise.   

Sometimes older adults can be protective of their financial and personal information.  You will need them to understand that you are not trying to invade their privacy or take over their personal lives but rather want to be prepared to assist in the case of an emergency.   

If you are looking for the best senior living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar at Jordan Creek.  Our assisted living and memory care community is ready to care for your elderly parent’s physical, intellectual, spiritual and social needs.  Amenities and services include wellness programs and activities, three tasty, daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, 24/7 care and more.  We also have a compassionate team that feels privileged to serve seniors.  Contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living Des Moines has to offer.