Having a conversation with your parent in advance is always the best option.

Schedule a time with your siblings in a public location without their spouses so you can decide what is best. Keep in regular communication and schedule time to address the issues, such as visiting, cleaning, making sure they eat and take their medication, get to doctor appointments, etc.

Ask your parent(s) about the following:

• Monthly bills and expenses
• Medications and schedules
• Medical Records
• List of Doctors
• Doctor Appointments
• Pet care

Home Maintenance:

• Home maintenance and regular care
• Smoke Detectors
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors
• Unknown Leaks
• Mildew/mold issues
• Water Heater installation and strapping (permits are a must)
• Any other deferred maintenance

Automobile:

• Are they fit to drive?
• Condition of the Car (tires, maintenance, etc.)

Documents:

• Advance Health Care Directive Form
• Wills/Trusts - if they exist and if they are up-to-date
• Bank Accounts
• Investment Accounts
• Insurance Policies
• Mortgages or Other Loans
• Pensions
• Deeds and Titles
• Pink Slip to Car
• Passport
• Retirement Accounts
• Safety Deposit Boxes and Keys
• Credit Accounts
• Valuables stored in home and elsewhere
• Computer Passwords
• Division of Assets
• Name of Executor
• Power of Attorney (Healthcare and Durable)
• Special bequests
• Housing alternatives with friends/family
• Retirement Community
• Assisted Living Center
• Nursing Facility

End of Life Decisions:

• Obituary writing
• Burial or Cremation preferences
• Funeral preferences (music, eulogy, conductor, food)
• Memorial preference in lieu of flowers
• Living bequests - Discuss sentimental item distribution to children/heirs