If you read my recent blog, you know that my family had a scary few days when we thought we might lose my mom. It was an incredibly stressful time. However, one thing my brother and I never had to worry about was our parents’ wishes or our ability to support them.
Why? Because a few years ago, my parents gave us the medical and legal documents we would need as they aged — and even after they died. Their wishes are crystal clear to us, and we have the paperwork to make sure we can honor them. It’s one of the greatest gifts they could have given us.
So, with the help of my good friend ChatGPT, here’s my Public Service Announcement (PSA): Do what my parents did.
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Do it for your children.
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Do it for your loved ones.
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Encourage your older relatives to do it for you.
You will never regret having this prepared. And when the time comes, you’ll be grateful you took care of it now.
Older Relatives Document Preparedness Checklist
Contact Information
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Primary care doctor & specialists
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Attorney
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Financial advisor
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Clergy or spiritual leader
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Close friends/relatives to notify
Digital Assets & Accounts
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List of online accounts & passwords
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Instructions for managing digital legacy
End-of-Life & Funeral Planning
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Final wishes statement
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Prepaid funeral or burial contracts
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Obituary information
Financial & Asset Records
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List of bank accounts
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Retirement & investment account information
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Pension or Social Security information
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Property deeds & titles
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Life insurance policies
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Outstanding debt records
Health & Medical Documents
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HIPAA authorization form
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Advance directive / living will
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Durable power of attorney for health care
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POLST / MOLST form
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List of current medications
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Summary of medical history
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Health insurance information
Identification & Vital Records
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Birth certificate
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Marriage certificate
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Social Security card
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Driver’s license / state ID
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Passport
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Military discharge papers (DD-214)
Legal & Financial Decision-Making
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Durable power of attorney for finances
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Will
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Trust documents
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Guardianship designations
You’re welcome! Now get to it — for your peace of mind, and for the people who love you.
Love,
Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist
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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com.