I want to get my MIL a book in which she can write down some of the important things that her family needs to know, such as the location of her burial plot, her insurance and pension information, and so on. I read somewhere on this site that there are commercially printed books available that have headings about various topics with space below for senior citizens to write the necessary information.
When we went to the Elder Law attorney, I was happy to see Dad bring that red binder with him :)
I had my father give me this information on a box of photographs some years ago. Fortunately, he lived much longer (almost 19 years), but I never regretted having it done when I did.
good luck!!
"Create a loving gift for your family by entering in this family organizing book. All the information they'll need to know one day about your banking, personal property, insurance, burial wishes, investments, etc. 10 lined pages clearly identify topics to cover, with space for writing family information. Also pocket pages for inserting documents. Spiralbound, softcover. Two pockets, 20 pages. 8" wide x 10" high."
There are quite a few. I thought this one was nice because it had pockets in which to put documents. It also seemed to be "not-so-daunting" that someone would find it fairly easy to complete.
mileskimball/buy-family-organizer-book-311707
What a GREAT idea, Sodonewithsal1. About five years ago, I noticed that all mom's banking information was very disorganized. I talked her into going through all of it with her and making a list. Banks had changed names; old matured CDs were hanging around. Etc. Etc. She was sharp as a tack at that time, and we finished it in two afternoons. That information became invaluable to me. She has dementia now, and can't reliably remember a thing.