Talk to Your Parents Before a Crisis
Let’s face it…we know you have a lot of things on your mind and a lot of different things to take care of. You have your own chores to take care of, your own children and grandchildren and now your parents might need to be looked after as well.
If you’ve never discussed estate, health or long-term care planning with your parents, now is the time. Remember, the best time to talk is before a crisis even arises. Here are a few pointers to help you with this sometimes difficult and uncomfortable conversation:
- Ask your parents who should look after their affairs should a medical emergency occur
- Let them know that it will be easier for you to help them later when they need you if they share the details about their finances with you now
- Try to keep the conversation relaxed and low key
- Be patient and respectful; put yourself in their shoes
- Ask for help from your siblings (if you have any)
- Understand this conversation may have to be brought up more than once
Hopefully, your parents will be willing to talk to you about these subjects. However, some may not be so willing. At the very least, you should find out where your parents keep their financial documents in case of an emergency. You may also wish to contact a third party to help bring in some objectivity to the issues.
For additional tools and tips, visit these recommended sites:
