Be prepared for crisis

Written by Kelly Lamb

It happens to all of us at some point in our lives: A crisis. Though it may be difficult to talk to your loved ones about personal and financial matters and preferences, it’s better to have these things settled before a crisis occurs. During this stressful time, it can be difficult to think clearly and choices may be limited. If you’re providing care for a loved one, or might be in the future, here is a checklist of information to have available. It may not be all-inclusive, but it will get you on the path to being well-prepared.

1. List and prioritize a list of your loved one’s caregiving needs.

2. Prepare a list of tasks to give to people who might offer assistance.

3. Create a list of legal and financial information:

•  Medical information such as all doctors’ names and numbers, a current list of medications, therapists, case managers, home health agencies that might be involved, pharmacy contact number, and any allergies.

•  A file of personal information such as a birth certificate, Social Security number, citizenship status, military information (for those with VA benefits).

•  Insurance information including: Type of coverage, Medicare and/or Medicaid information, long-term care policy (if applicable) and what it covers, coverage through a private pension plan or retirement benefit, prescription drug coverage (or Medicare Part D) and who administers these programs.

•  Legal or financial information including a copy of the will, Power of Attorney (POA) for health care, POA for finances, a living will or advanced directive, a deed or information about finances for the residence, car titles, checking and savings account information, specifics about trust funds, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, retirement accounts, a list of debts, credit cards and outstanding bills, monthly Social Security benefits, tax information (accountant) and other related documents.

4. Hold a family meeting to assess time and talents of each member. For example, one person might be better at providing hands-on care and another better at finances. Define and agree on a plan concerning which tasks will be performed, by whom and on what days.

5. Develop a “plan B” to have in place if something should happen to the primary caregiver.

6. Become familiar with and develop a list of community resources that will offer assistance such as counselors, adult day centers, churches, home care agencies and alternative housing resources.

7. Gather information on any respite providers available in the area.

8. Purchase a couple of good books on caregiving such as “Caring For Yourself While Caring For Your Aging Parents,” by Claire Berman, or “The Caregiver’s Guide,” by Caroline Rob.

9. Familiarize yourself with any “aging experts” in your area such as the Heritage Area Agency on Aging that can provide names and numbers of resources.

10. Take advantage of the Family Caregiver Support Program to help you prepare an emergency plan and to assist you in navigating the system.

Kelly Lamb is a family caregiver counselor for Elder Services of Iowa, based in Iowa City. Contact her at 338-0515 or klamb@elderservices.com.