As tedious as this may sound to some people, keeping a senior care notebook can be a blessing when needed. Good record keeping can document tax deductions for dependent care, explain financial costs to siblings, and be a guidebook for substitute caregivers. We suggest the following be kept in your caregiver notebook:
◊ A copy of the Durable Power of Attorney and any medical advance directives.
◊ Insurance information regarding Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance and any long-term care insurance.
◊ Names, telephone numbers and addresses of friends and clergy of your parents.
◊ Emergency contact information.
◊ Contact information for health care including doctor names, specialty, and telephone numbers; pharmacy information (keep those patient advisory handouts here); and hospital preference or limitations. Include any home health agency you regularly work with or prefer.
◊ A schedule of a typical day. This will help any respite friend or worker follow and know what to expect such as naps, mealtimes and TV or radio programs.
◊ Dietary information including favorite foods and dislikes as well as any allergies.
◊ Description of problem behaviors such as wandering, agitation, locking him or herself in the bathroom.
◊ If your parent has some dementia and asks repeated questions, make a list of the correct answers for any homecare worker or friends to follow.