Mail Forward

Re-direct the Mail

Sometimes it is wise to have mail re-directed, temporarily or permanently. You may have taken over banking for your Aging Loved One. He or she may be in hospital for a prolonged period of time. Dementia may be a factor. It's so simple to visit the Post Office and apply to have all mail sent to you. You may have to pay a small fee. It's worth every penny.

Surprises

One caregiver discovered some interesting things once she began receiving Mum's mail. All manner of companies had Mum's name and address on their mailing lists and a stack of unsolicited mail accumulated quickly. The daughter made a point of contacting each company—cruise ships, various charities, book clubs, etc.—either by a toll-free number or email.

You can do this. Your message might read as follows:

Please delete the following name from your mailing list effective immediately:

[Insert Name Here]

[Insert Address Here]

(Include any other info that appears on the mailing sticker. Often there is a number.)

Thank you.

Sign your name—first initial and surname.

No excuses, no explanations. DO NOT give a reason for the cancellation. You're doing your part to save our planet from excessive paper waste and you may help Mum avoid being suckered into a shady deal.

If you liked this article you might also like these:

Do it Yourself: Without outside approval, you can put in place many things to make life easier for your Aging Loved One. Here are tips to make time and your phone your new best friends.
Banking: The bank can flag an account in order to monitor unsuitable activity on the part of your Aging Loved One. You may be able to watch discreetly from afar via the Internet if you think banking affairs are out of control.
Living Aids: A variety of aids are available to assist your Aging Loved One remain independent, safe and happy. A few simple aids can make a world of difference.
Medical Alarm: In-home medical alarm systems save lives and provide peace of mind, especially to you as the care-giver for your Aging Loved One.
Physical Safety in the Home: Practical tips are included here to increase safety in the home for a senior in your care. You can do many yourself; others will require professional help.
Simple Little Sticker: Follow the advice from the emergency response team: make this simple little sticker clearly visible to all responders.
The File: Label the file folder with the name of your Aging Loved One, learn how to use it efficiently, and your headaches (almost) will disappear! It all happens here.
Red Flag Situations: Is your Aging Loved One a target of a scam? Mail fraud? Credit card fraud? Beware and be cautious.