Checklists and Lists to Guide You

 

Preparing for the end of life isn't fun. But, thinking about the issues and compiling information beforehand can allow more quality time during the final days. It also can relieve the caregiver's burden at such a difficult time.

 

 

Pre-Planning List for Legal Documents

Document	Date	Location
Will
Durable Power of Attorney
Health Care Power of Attorney
Advanced Instruction for Mental Health Treatment
Living Will
Organ Donation Card
Detailed End of Life Plan*

*not a legal document

 

Need to know what any of these documents are and how to obtain them? If so, please go to the section on Legal Considerations.

 

 

Pre-Planning List for Miscellaneous Information

Have written information on the following in a safe and secure location. Make sure to tell an appropriate person where this information is located. Be especially careful with this list! You do not want this sensitive information to get into the wrong hands. However, this is needed information when a person dies.

Need Information On:

safe deposit box(es) & keys computer passwords bank accounts investments real estate debts recurring taxes social security number credit cards charge accounts inventory of non-real estate property military service records insurance policies retirement benefits workplace benefits partnerships/business arrangements other(s)

 

Many banks and other groups use passwords to access information online. Be sure to include the passwords for any agency or business, if applicable, in addition to computer passwords. User names and the password should be identified together. If you keep a lot of confidential information or business information on the computer, be sure to identify that for the executor of the will. It may not be something that he or she would think to look at soon after death.

And a caveat... always assume that someone will access your computer files after your death. If there is information on your computer that you do not want others to see, delete it. If you are computer savvy, overwrite it. There are software programs that are designed to make sure that even computer professionals cannot access deleted information. As a caregiver, should you choose to donate your family member's computer, make sure you use a software program to clear the computer before you give it away.

 

 

Pre-Planning List for End of Life Discussions

It is important to discuss End of Life related issues before there is an imminent need. Discussions will differ depending on the relationship of the person with the family member needing care.

To follow is a list of various individuals that need to be considered.

Spouse Children Doctor Attorney Executor of the Will Other Family Members Other(s)

 

 

 

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