If, like me, you help take care of a loved one on Medicare, you know it can be stressful.

Whether you’re just starting to realize mom or dad may need some help managing their care or you’ve been doing it for a while, there are steps you can take to make the process easier on everyone—you, your loved one and their health care team.

I recommend getting a head start on this now. If you wait until there’s an actual medical need, it can be difficult to get all the information you need in the heat of the moment. And it’s one less thing to worry about when emotions are running high.

These three things have worked well for me as I’ve helped care for my Medicare-aged parents

1. Becoming an authorized representative

If you’re feeling like it’s time to take things to the next level, you may want to become an authorized representative for your loved one. Each health insurance company will have a process for how you can do this—give them a call to learn more.

As an authorized representative, the health insurance company will be able to share information with you about your loved one’s health insurance plan. They can help you understand Explanations of Benefits or share details on clinic bills and monthly premiums — or even answer questions you may have on behalf of your loved one.

2. Researching health plan details

Make a copy of your relative’s member ID card. That way, you have their ID number, important numbers to call with questions and the name of their plan.

From there, call the health plan and ask for an overview of the person’s benefits – if you’re an authorized representative. Take the time to make sure you understand the details of their coverage. If you’re unsure about some of the terms they use, ask them to explain or do some internet research.

3. Making a list of doctors and medicines

I’m a big fan of spreadsheets so this one comes easily for me, but I know not everyone shares my obsession!

You’ll want to keep track of prescription medicine names, dosage (amount) and instructions for use. Ask the pharmacy for a printout of your loved one’s account history. Or, if they have Medicare Part D, you can get a monthly statement of prescriptions that were filled the previous month (called a Part D Explanation of Benefit). Either way, make sure to get a couple months’ worth of history to account for meds taken less often. Then check the list against what’s actually in mom’s or dad’s medicine cabinet.

Your loved one’s health plan is there to help. Don’t hesitate to give them a call if you want to better understand their health insurance benefits!