Planning and resources · Maryland
A written care plan helps an older adult and family organize daily needs, medical contacts, responsibilities, and what to do when circumstances change.
When this service may help
Create or update one after a health change, a new service begins, or relatives are sharing care tasks. Include the older adult’s goals and preferences.
What to compare
A useful plan identifies current routines, medications and providers, emergency contacts, who handles each task, backup coverage, and when the plan will be reviewed.
Questions to ask
- Who will coordinate the plan and keep it current?
- What tasks need help today, and which may change soon?
- Who is the backup if a caregiver is unavailable?
- How will providers and family share important updates?
- Where will the plan and key documents be kept securely?
Next step
Begin with a one-page list of needs, contacts, and responsibilities. Review it with the older adult and relevant care professionals, then revisit it after a change.