How to Talk to Your Parents About Their Future

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Talking to anyone about their future can be a daunting task, doubly so when its the folks who have spent their adult lives preparing you for yours!

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Comfortable surroundings
Photo albums
Brochures of different options

Step1

Tell your parents you want to have a serious discussion and that you want to make a date. Make it for a time when you'll have a few hours to talk and have a plan to go do something enjoyable together afterwards.

Step2

Consider all of your parents' needs. Medical, financial, everyday assistance, spiritual and entertainment. Then consider what you can provide. Remember, your parents may want to do as much as possible for themselves. Research different options and obtain their promotional materials. Also find a reputable attorney that specializes in elder law.

Step3

When it comes time to have the conversation, broach the subject immediately and delicately. It is best if you can have as many family members as possible there to show concern and respect. Explain that you are not going to make any decisions for them, that you want to help in any way. Before presenting any options, ask them what they themselves have already considered, and what they are opposed to.

Step4

Show them the brochures from step 2, leaving out any that go against their wishes. Explain why you thought they were appropriate and tell them if they want to find out more you'll be there to help. Tell them that if they don't have an estate attorney yet that you have found one.

Step5

Wrap up the conversation on a positive note and go out for the activity you planned in step 1. Do not bring up their future again until you drop them off, and then only say that if they want to talk more to call you. It's OK to call again in a few days if they haven't, but don't press the issue.

Tips & Warnings

If you plan on doing this during a holiday, wait until after the celebration
Don't wait until something happens to force the issue; discuss sooner, not later