Aging parent caregiver binder checklist

Core sections most families need

1. Emergency Information Sheet — photo, DOB, allergies, conditions, meds with doses, pharmacy, primary doctor, preferred hospital, insurance member IDs, emergency contacts.
2. Medication tracker — current list, start/stop dates, prescribing doctor, refill schedule.
3. Doctors & specialists directory — names, phones, patient-portal notes.
4. Insurance & Medicare — Part A/B/C/D or Advantage plan details, supplemental policies, claim contacts. During Medicare Open Enrollment (typically Oct 15–Dec 7), keep a side-by-side plan worksheet; verify dates on Medicare.gov.
5. Legal document checklist — where the POA, healthcare proxy, living will/advance directive, HIPAA authorization, will, and POLST/MOLST (if any) are stored. The binder holds locations and copies per your attorney’s guidance — not a substitute for state-specific forms.
6. Bills & accounts — utilities, rent/mortgage, subscriptions, with who pays what.
7. Family care team / sibling plan — who handles meds, rides, bills, and visits so one person is not silently carrying everything.

Printable vs fillable

A fillable PDF you can type into and print is usually better than a one-shot printable: siblings can share the same file, and ER copies stay readable. Use Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) for reliable saves.

Questions, answered

Organizing information only — not medical, legal, insurance, or Medicare advice. Confirm Medicare dates and plan rules on Medicare.gov.