Early family involvement will ease the burden on the caregiver

A growing number of adults are becoming the primary caregiver for their spouse. The caretaker’s burden does not necessarily fall on the younger of the two, or even on the presumably healthier partner. Sudden illnesses and accidents can wreak havoc on a home.

In our home, my husband and I keep each other well informed about household affairs. Early family involvement in this way was helpful when I became ill and was hospitalized for a long time. It was reassuring to know that everything was fixed at home.

This family involvement does not only apply to a household, but may need to be extended to your parents or your adult children. There is great wisdom and comfort in being prepared. It is not good for a spouse to be left tending to household details and not even know where the papers are kept.

Here is a partial list of a few things for a husband and wife to consider. They are also important to consider as the possibility of caring for one or both of your aging parents increases.

1. Medical information. What medications are currently taken? Where are they kept? Who is the primary doctor? Are there any allergies? Diet requirements?

2.Cleaning. Where are the keys to the house, garage or other buildings. Any animal or plant to take care of?

3.Utilities. Are bills paid regularly? Do you have a contact number for the electric, gas or phone company? Are there cable, internet, or other monthly charges that I need to be aware of?

4. Safe. Is there a home policy? Because? Doctor? Life? Other? Are they paid monthly, quarterly or annually? Are these current? Do you know where those policies are kept?

5. Bank. Can each of you balance the statement? Do you both know where the checkbook is kept? Can either of you sign if necessary? Are there savings accounts or safe deposit boxes?

6. Division of Motor Vehicles. Are all vehicles tagged and registered? Any outstanding fees or tickets?

7. Taxes. Are takes paid on any property that you or your parents may own? This is a very important element for the investigation.

8.Other people. Do you (particularly) know with the parents, if they have people scheduled to come regularly to do laundry, clean the house, do gardening or some other chore for them? If so, you need their names and phone numbers. Do you have a key to the house? Who else can have a key?

Understandably, this is a very basic list. However, I can tell you from experience that taking the time to answer these questions will have a huge impact on your peace of mind should the unforeseen happen. Resolve to contact your family members this week about some of these details.

Consider your adult children. Are there any of these articles that you need to go over with them? If family members are not interested, you can make a list of this necessary information. You can put the information in a large envelope somewhere in case it is needed. Make sure others know where the information will be found.

This article is intended to cover the basics. To be truly prepared for emergencies, you should talk to your banker about any accounts you have and make sure action is taken in the event he is hospitalized or unable to conduct business. Insurance policies and wills should be reviewed frequently for your own safety and the safety of others.

Caring for others can be exhausting and stressful, as well as a joy and a blessing. Being prepared is one way to lighten the load. I pray that this list stimulates your thinking and helps your family feel comfortable sharing information with others.