Caregiver Checklist: 10 Documents to Organize for an Aging Parent ✦

It usually happens gradually and then all at once, one phone call from a doctor and suddenly you're the point person. Getting organized isn't about doing everything today, it's about knowing what exists and where it lives.

Advance directive, health care proxy, medication and allergy list, list of physicians and specialists, insurance and Medicare cards, a document locator, financial power of attorney, will or estate documents, emergency contact sheet, and a printable wallet card summary.

Start with the advance directive and health care proxy, since these matter most in an emergency. Financial and estate documents matter too, but they're rarely needed on the same urgent timeline.

Revisit the whole packet once a year, or after any major health change, new diagnosis, or move. A quick annual review keeps everything current without becoming a big project.