The Binder Method of Organization

When caregiving, you may find yourself in the situation of having to organize two sets of everything.

That means organizing and managing several bank accounts, medical documents, chore lists, meal lists, appointments, etc.

The binder method is a method of organization that can help keep finances, mail, task lists, etc. separate but still accessible.

Here are some reasons why you need to be using this method right now:

Accessibility: Projects and documents often need to be accessible and the binder method allows for quick access to needed information.

They can literally be stored anywhere and are fairly inexpensive especially during school supply season.

It is imperative that you separate your finances from the person you care for.

Ensures separation: It is imperative that you separate your finances from the person that you care for (unless you are a parent caring for a minor child). Keeping track of expenses, bills, and methods of payment are important to ensure that you are not inadvertently committing financial abuse.

Bill statements, receipts for purchases, and bank statements can be kept securely all in one location.

Grab and Go: Keeping a binder with relevant medical documentation can be handy to grab on the go for doctors’ visits, emergency room visits or to keep in an emergency “go bag.”

Information such as a last doctors visit summaries, especially if you are seeing several doctors or specialists, allergy lists, medication lists, or wellness logs can be beneficial information to have on hand.

Organization helps to reduce decision fatigue, stress and anxiety. Taking a few moments to get organize can pay dividends well into the future. The goal is more than surviving, but thriving. Taking some time to get organized is one avenue to thriving.