Great article Brenda! One idea to consider is a secure online password creation and memory system where you can have your loved one give you access in an emergency. It can have a limit on how long it takes that access is available. I'm on a family plan with one of them so my daughter has access to mine if something should happen to me and vice versa (its not just for older folks). Also several passwords are securely shared with her anyway .
I use LastPass but there are others. There are some concerns from folks by those super cyber experts but at least you can generate unique and tough passwords and it is more secure than a spiral bound notebook!
On a smaller scale, and because I fell super ill last week: have a dedicated stash of over the counter medication. Keep it stocked and in the same place so you can find/access it when you are ill. Also keep a variety of shelf stable foods for when you are ill. Along with some electrolyte drinks. Enough for a few days worth.
Great list. Love the ideas in the comments as well. I know you can purchase a kit (FB ads!) but at minimum, make a list of your accounts, autopayments, and insurance policies, just in case. I have a file box with EVERYTHING! My son knows where it is - especially if I am traveling out of the country. The one thing I want to add - never wait until its too late to ask for help. even though we are stronger as we get older bolder and better (!) - leaning on others can be a blessing for both.
Brenda, this is an excellent piece! I’m sure you’ve got a lot of people thinking about “What if… .” I have a file I can share titled ‘Dear Loved Ones’ that itemizes every piece of information someone else should have or have access to, it might help people be less daunted by the task of gathering it all. Great topic, terrific writing!
Great article and good list of to do’s👍
Great article Brenda! One idea to consider is a secure online password creation and memory system where you can have your loved one give you access in an emergency. It can have a limit on how long it takes that access is available. I'm on a family plan with one of them so my daughter has access to mine if something should happen to me and vice versa (its not just for older folks). Also several passwords are securely shared with her anyway .
Would you share which system you are using?
I use LastPass but there are others. There are some concerns from folks by those super cyber experts but at least you can generate unique and tough passwords and it is more secure than a spiral bound notebook!
On a smaller scale, and because I fell super ill last week: have a dedicated stash of over the counter medication. Keep it stocked and in the same place so you can find/access it when you are ill. Also keep a variety of shelf stable foods for when you are ill. Along with some electrolyte drinks. Enough for a few days worth.
I love that idea, Ellie! Great tips for any age—not just the older crowd.
Great list. Love the ideas in the comments as well. I know you can purchase a kit (FB ads!) but at minimum, make a list of your accounts, autopayments, and insurance policies, just in case. I have a file box with EVERYTHING! My son knows where it is - especially if I am traveling out of the country. The one thing I want to add - never wait until its too late to ask for help. even though we are stronger as we get older bolder and better (!) - leaning on others can be a blessing for both.
Brenda, this is an excellent piece! I’m sure you’ve got a lot of people thinking about “What if… .” I have a file I can share titled ‘Dear Loved Ones’ that itemizes every piece of information someone else should have or have access to, it might help people be less daunted by the task of gathering it all. Great topic, terrific writing!
Great column, Brenda! I have some of these done already but not all so thanks for this timely reminder!