Eldercare: Getting Your Parents House in Order

by Vanessa Barnes
(Crosby, Texas)

We usually do not live day by day making plans to get sick or to be placed on long term disability. Yet in the case of aging parents, some things can be anticipated.

This article brings to the forefront an extremely important topic; getting their house in order.

"But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let these first learn to perform their religious duty to their parents, for this is pleasing to God." (1 Timothy 5:4) There it is; our mandate.

The fact is, God has always planned on wisdom being a part of our Christian walk. Moreover, as we see here, He has made it our duty.

Let us take heed; let us use the wisdom God gives us to please Him concerning the care of our parents.

Should an unexpected illness befall one or both of your parents, you or the still healthy parent, will be left to tend to all of the business that goes with maintaining a household. This is not an issue that will just go away.

Assembling as much personal information beforehand is both wise and prudent. Do you know where your parents keep papers regarding checking and saving accounts? What about investments, insurance or Medicare? Have they entrusted this information to a close family member?

In case of an emergency, will you be able to step in and pay their utility bills or insurance premiums? Do you have permission to speak to Medicare representatives on their behalf?

Making arrangements and certain decisions before the need arise is a smart thing to do.

Begin today to assemble a file with personal information such as SS#, full legal name, date and place of birth, location of will, marriage certificate, birth certificate, divorce papers, citizenship papers, military papers, names and addresses of doctors and lawyers, special requests, religious affiliation, name, address and phone number of church and pastor.

On the financial side: all sources of income, copy of most recent tax return, certificates of deposit, stocks, bonds, mortgage information, deed of trust, car title and property taxes. You may also want to locate jewelry and family treasures.

These lists may not be all inclusive, but they will get you started.

The Lord did not suggest we honor our father and mother, He commanded it. So, if you truly want to live up to your religious duty--Get Your Parents House in Order.

God bless!