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Getting affairs in order
Even though it may be hard to discuss the future with the person you’re caring for, there are many issues that are best raised early on, with all those concerned being involved. Here are some of the things that you may wish to consider discussing:
- an advanced care plan or directive
- how they want to pay their accommodation bond and other charges (more information) if they need to go into an aged care home
- choosing an aged care home
- which personal effects they are particularly attached to their will
- contact details of the executors of their will
- preferred funeral arrangements.
These include:
- Do you have a will?
- Is this will current?
- Where is the will kept?
- Are there copies of the will?
- Who are the executors of the will?
- Do you have an advanced care plan or directive?
- If you have to go into residential care, what arrangements do you want made to pay your accommodation bond or charges?
- Does someone know where your important documents are kept?
- Does someone know the details of legal arrangements you have made with the person you care for?
Important documents to keep safely
These include:- power of attorney/guardianship
- house title/lease documents
- shares and investments
- financial commitments/contracts e.g. mortgage, loans, credit cards
- banking details
- pension details
- income stream documentation
- will
- insurance/funeral benefits
- medical benefits
- birth certificate
- marriage certificate
- divorce certificate
- income tax returns
- passport/citizenship papers/residency permit, and
- medication requirements.
Who will take over the caring if something unexpected happens to me?
An emergency care plan can also be an important part of planning ahead, giving you the peace of mind that if anything should happen to you, the person you care for will still receive support. You can order a complimentary emergency care kit (part of the Carer Information Pack) by calling the Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre on 1800 052 222. These kits contain emergency contact cards for you to carry in your purse or wallet and instructions and forms for making an emergency care plan.Legal support
Making legal arrangements can sometimes seem daunting as there are lots of complex legal terms to understand and laws can be different in each state and territory. But it’s important to plan ahead so that you’re prepared for whatever happens. You may find that once arrangements have been made, both of you can face the future with far greater peace of mind.There are a number of legal arrangements that may help you plan for the future and put everyone’s affairs in order – such as getting a power of attorney or an enduring power of attorney. However, what can be done to plan the future of the person you care for will very much depend on their abilities, views and age.
You’ll find that every situation is different and professional advice may assist you.
Read more: About legal support
