Preparing for elder care is crucial, and having a well-organized checklist can make the process smoother. Here are some valuable resources and checklists to consider: 

1. List the kind of help your aging parent or loved one needs (medical, personal care, nutrition, toileting, mobility, companionship, household services, social activities, etc.).

2. List all the responsibilities to manage their home (cleaning, plumbing, electric, lawn, repairs, taxes, etc.).

3. Conduct a thorough home assessment.

4. Gather original or copies of important personal documents (birth paper, social security card, marriage, bank statements, debt, bills, etc.).

5. Complete legal documents (wills, do not resuscitate, power of attorney, etc.).

6. Establish a relationship with ALL their medical providers.

7. Get a mental health assessment for your aging parent or loved one.

8. Assess the type of recreational activities and exercises they can do.

9. Compile a list of medications and consider a medication adherence program.

10. Explore what services and support you (the caregiver) have to help you (employee assistant program, family and medical leave act, support from family and friends, etc.)

11. Seek selfcare and respite care for caregivers.

12. Review elder health insurance coverage.

13. Obtain a list of friends, family, neighbors, and persons/professionals that are close to your elderly parent or loved one.

14. Plan for worse case scenario (death, illness, emergency, having to move into an assisted living center or nursing home, etc.)

15. Consider downsizing.

16. Consider an emergency alert system in case they fall.

17. Conduct a driving assessment.

18. Get list of online accounts with passwords.

19. Decide what to do with pets (if any).

20. Hire a geriatric care manager.