Guys, this is really grim, but take it from someone who just lost a parent: Talk to them about life, download family lore. But also make sure that they have documented passwords, bank accounts, insurance policies, and have a medical directive.
Even if a parent just gets really sick, you'll need to be ready to step in and run things, probably from afar. You need these tools to be able to do that.
Other things you'll need: Names and numbers of their doctors. Ideally a letter to those doctors saying they can talk to you, despite HIPPA. Prescriptions and pharmacy. Names and numbers of their friends. Where is the deed to house? Which bank is deposit box in. Etc.
Things that you won't think of but become SO important if they pass. What are the passwords to any photo and social media accounts? If their device is biometric, can somebody be added or is there an override.
Ok I'm writing a piece about all this. Stand by.
Do not wait another day to talk to your parents about what you need to know if they get sick or die. I wrote about my experience: motherjones.com/coronavirus-up…
