Natl Next of Kin Registry

[lvponies]

I came across the National Next of Kin Registry. You can register your loved ones and put your information to be notified in case of an emergency. I did it because my dad lives alone about 5-6 hours away from me. I don't know his neighbors or anyone down there to contact in case something happens. You can also fill out and print a card your loved one can put in their wallet or purse with your information. I found the link on my dad's local police department's web site. Long story short......yesterday was my dad's birthday and I tried to call him and his phone was out of service. Well....I've temporarily lost my address book, so looked up his number on the web. I wrote it down wrong. Was getting ready to call the police to go check on him, checked the number again and realized my mistake. This is after I checked obits and police reports from his neighborhood. I was really scared!! My dad & I are not close, but I would hate to have something happen to him and not be notified.

Anyway.....here's the link....http://pleasenotifyme.org/nok/restricted/home.htm It only takes a minute to fill out. You put your loved one's name, address and phone number and then your name, address and phone number.

 

[susanne]

This IS a good idea, although I generally hate giving the government any more info than necessary.

HOWEVER, this is not a substitute for knowing your aging parents' neighbors. Not that you have to become friends, but they are the most likely to know if he's out and about, and would be most able to check on them quickly.

My mother's phone was out one day. I had no reason to think she wasn't fine, and she would be embarrassed to have someone check unnecessarily. I called her neighbor, who concocted an excuse to visit her. She called me back and let me know all was fine, so then I could relax.

We don't have enough community these days, but we can work to recreate it.