Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Being prepared for illness or death is the best gift you can give your loved ones.

About a year ago, I sat down with my Dad and filled out a life organizer with him. He scoffed at first, but when I explained how important it was, he agreed and got it done with me. At that time we also reviewed all his legal documents to make sure that everything was in place in case of a tragic situation. I got copies of everything and kept them on file at my house. Today, as I write this, my Dad is laying in the hospital unable to respond. In my state of worry, it is hard for me to think straight. His life organizer has been my saving grace. Having all the vital information at my finger tips has been crucial to handling his affairs for him. Death or illness can hit you or a loved one suddenly at any time. Are your affairs or those of your parents or loved ones organized in such a way that your spouse, good friend or family member can easily step in and take care of things for you? If not, read on….

Every family should have a life organizer. You can make it or buy one (check out the Savvy Senior Organizer at www.colorfulimages.com – not just for seniors!!). A life organizer is a notebook or file that contains all the most important information needed to manage your household. Information about medical, insurance, bill paying, children’s school, pet’s needs, passwords, etc should be included. Having all this information in a safe, central location will save your loved ones a lot of grief at a time when they need to focus on getting things handled. Life organizers are an invaluable gift.

Furthermore, every person should have a will, power of attorney and medical directory. Death is a very hard topic to discuss, however, being prepared for it is the best gift you can give your loved ones.

Meagan Farrell, professional organizer, is the owner of Clear the Clutter organizing services. She can be reached at (360) 631-7268 or at clear_theclutter@yahoo.com. Check out her blog at http://cleartheclutterprofessionalorganizing.blogspot.com/

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