How keeping your important documents in digital storage can be a lifesaver

SALT LAKE CITY — Think about the paperwork that runs your life. Medical records, insurance policies, bonds, car titles, financial statements, birth certificates, passports, and so much more. Many of us stash such documents in a filing cabinet somewhere, but experts say we should consider using digital storage. Tom Kamber, executive director of AARP’s Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), is worried by a recent survey that found nearly two-thirds of older Americans have not saved any critical documents digitally. “There is a real challenge – where there's a kind of missed opportunity,” he said of digital storage. Kamber said keeping everything on paper can backfire. Documents get lost or get destroyed in disasters. Or they can be simply out of reach when you need them most. “There really isn't any limit to what you could put online,” he said. Kamber suggested strongly that people consider digitizing financial documents. Especially, things related to your house, your investments, or your bank accounts so trusted people helping manage finances can access them if needed. And digitize medical records, because family members may need quick access in an emergency. Kamber has first-hand experience after he says his mom got sick “It took us more than, I think, two weeks to start getting the information we needed,” he recalled. “It put her health at risk and created a nightmare for the family to get the information.” The AARP says organizing your digital life now could save you and your family a lot of stress later. Digital storage is advice that Kamber said is not just reserved for retirees. “It really is something that anybody can do.”

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