In addition to the usual list of important documents―family records, medical records, wills, living wills, deeds, Social Security number, charge and bank accounts information, and tax records―you may want to consider other documents because you are a caregiver.

Caregivers have the responsibility of preparing not only for themselves but also the person for whom they care. Remember as you're getting your papers together that you will probably want to collect the same information for your care recipient. If you have a legal relationship with your care recipient, e.g. power of attorney, medical power of attorney, keep a copy of that document with you at all times.

Have copies of your care recipient's medical insurance and Medicare and/or Medicaid cards readily available. Keep a list of the style and serial number of medical devices or other life-sustaining devices. Include operating information and instructions. As a back-up, make sure that a friend or family member has copies of these documents.

Remember to keep all these documents in a waterproof container for quick and easy access. Update and revise as needed.