Caregiver Toolbox

One of the biggest challenges in becoming a caregiver is knowing where to start. Consider using the steps below as a guide for preparing to become your loved one’s caregiver.

Step 1.

Consider creating a binder or a folder containing your loved one’s general information. This can come in handy if you are trying to verify them through their former job, military service or current association. Having key points of contact such as pastors and family are helpful if your loved one is hospitalized.

Use this list as a guide of what information to have on hand:

Full legal name (include a maiden name), legal residence and place of birth)
Social Security card and ID/ birth certificate or passport
Names and addresses of spouse and children
Location of birth and death certificates and certificates of marriage, divorce, citizenship, and adoption
Education, employment and/or military records (DD214 for service after 1/1/1950) and memberships in groups and awards received
Names and phone numbers of close friends, relatives, doctors, lawyers and financial advisors, religious organization and points of contact

Download our Prepare to Care Form

Step 2.

Depending on the needs of your relative, caring for them may be as simple as visiting them for a few hours once a week or possibly have to take time away from work to care for them full time. Assess how much time you may have to devote to caring for them and consider taking the following steps:

Plan for the impact on your own finances

Check with your HR department to see if you qualify for The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave to care for themselves, a spouse, child, parent, or a new child. Your health benefits are protected while you’re on leave. FMLA applies to employers with 50 or more employees, and you must have worked there for at least 12 months and 1,250 hours in the past year.
Consider how taking time away from work will impact your retirement.
Time away from work can affect your retirement savings. If possible, consider running a retirement calculation to understand the impact. If you have time before taking leave, increasing your 401(k) contributions may help offset future gaps.
Determine sources of financial help for caring costs. It is estimated that caregivers pay over $5,500 annually in out-of-pocket caregiving expenses. If you add that to the lost wages that caregivers typically experience, being a caregiver can seem financially overwhelming. You don’t have to carry the burden alone, though.

Step 3.

Create a personal care agreement

A personal care agreement is a contract between you and the person receiving your care. Though it may seem unnecessary to have such a legal document in place, it can also provide peace of mind that everyone - including extended family or other parties - are on the same page regarding expectations.

Drawing up a personal care agreement simply clarifies for all those involved what tasks are expected in return for a stated compensation.

Step 4.

Caregivers often focus so completely on their loved one’s needs that they forget to care for themselves. Remember the airplane oxygen mask analogy, you can’t help others if you’re struggling to breathe yourself. Taking care of you is not optional; it’s essential.

Establish your support team!

There are many trusted resources available to support you, including your local Office on Aging and national illness awareness or advocacy organizations.

You may also find support through:

Family members or friends who can listen without judgment
Your church, temple, or other place of worship
Caregiver support groups
A therapist, social worker, or counselor
National caregiver organizations
Organizations specific to your loved one’s illness or disability