Essential Documents Every Elder Caregiver Should Have — and Talk About (FREE Checklist Included!)

Being a caregiver often means juggling many responsibilities at once. One of the best ways to reduce stress for both you and your loved one is to make sure key documents are organized and up to date. This isn’t about taking over decision-making — it’s about creating space for honest conversations so you know your elder’s wishes and can honor them.

Below is a checklist of important documents, grouped by area. Use it as a gentle guide to start discussions with your parent, spouse, or relative.

🩺 Health & Medical

Why it matters: In an emergency, you’ll want to know exactly what your loved one wants for their care.

• Advance Directive/Living Will – Outlines medical treatment preferences if they’re unable to communicate.

• Medical Power of Attorney (Healthcare Proxy) – Names someone to make health decisions when they can’t.

• HIPAA Authorization Forms – Allows doctors to share medical information with you or other designated people.

• List of Current Medications & Allergies – Include dosages, prescribing doctors, and pharmacy contact info.

• Medical History Summary – Past surgeries, chronic conditions, vaccination records.

• Health Insurance Cards & Policy Details – Medicare/Medicaid numbers, supplemental or long-term care insurance.

• Preferred Providers List – Primary care, specialists, therapists, and emergency contacts.

  
  

💬 Conversation tip: Ask, “If something unexpected happened, how would you like your care handled? Is there anything specific you want me to know?”

💵 Finances & Legal

Why it matters: Having clear paperwork avoids delays with bills, benefits, and estate issues.

• Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney – Lets a trusted person handle finances if the elder can’t.

• Will &/or Trust Documents – Shows how assets should be distributed.

• List of Financial Accounts – Bank, retirement, brokerage, and credit cards with contact info.

• Social Security & Pension Information – Claim numbers, benefit letters, and deposit details.

• Tax Returns & Property Records – Useful for filing, audits, and potential Medicaid applications.

• Long-Term Care Insurance Policy – If applicable, with claim instructions.

• Safe Deposit Box/Lockbox Info – Location, key, and who’s authorized.

  
  

💬 Conversation tip: “Can we go over your accounts together so if something happens, I can help pay bills the way you want?”

🏠 Safety, Daily Living & Emergency

Why it matters: Quick access to these papers can protect your elder and help first responders.

• Home Safety Checklist – Smoke/CO detector maintenance, emergency exits, and fall-prevention measures.

• Emergency Contact List – Neighbors, friends, clergy, and local services.

• Home/Auto Insurance Policies – For claims after accidents or disasters.

• List of Service Providers – Utility companies, home care aides, cleaning or meal delivery services.

• Identification Documents – Driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, military ID.

• Funeral or Burial Preferences – Prepaid plans, cemetery deeds, or simply written wishes.

  
  

💬 Conversation tip: “Let’s put together a binder or folder so if there’s a storm or emergency, we both know exactly where to find everything.”

🖥️ Digital & Other

Why it matters: More of our lives are online now — and losing access can create big headaches.

• List of Online Accounts & Passwords – Banking, email, social media, medical portals.

• Password Manager Access – Or instructions for how to retrieve login credentials.

• Membership & Subscription Records – Gym, magazines, streaming services.

• Pet Care Information – Vet records, microchip numbers, and care instructions.

  
  

💬 Conversation tip: “Would you feel comfortable showing me where you keep your passwords, just in case?”

Making It Work

• Start small: Bring up one document or topic at a time over coffee rather than all at once.

• Use a neutral tool: Offer to create a “just in case” binder or digital folder together.

• Respect autonomy: Ask for preferences, don’t assume. You’re there to help them stay in control of their own life.

• Revisit annually: Update after major life events or policy changes.

  
  

By working through these documents collaboratively, you’re not only protecting your loved one — you’re also strengthening trust and ensuring their voice is heard in the moments that matter most.

Want a printable version? Grab our FREE one-page Elder Caregiver Documents Checklist. Sign up below and download instantly.