3 Important Things to Discuss with Your Aging Parents Today

Nobody likes talking about end-of-life issues with the ones they love—discussions can become emotional because the contemplation of losing someone you love is painful. But planning ahead and being ready for the inevitable can bring peace of mind to everyone in the family because hard decisions aren’t being left to the last minute when stress and grief are overpowering. You'll know your parents' wishes too, so you can honor them in the way they would like. So even though it's hard, try to discuss and make arrangements for the following three items today, or set up a time with your aging parents when everyone can discuss these decisions calmly—soon—so that you can all get back to enjoying life. If you’re struggling to start the conversation, At Home Personal Care team can help: (703) 494-3989.

1. Gather and Update Documents

Good, clear, signed documentation is one of the most important things you can have when late-life and end-of-life decisions need to be addressed. So, make sure that your parents have updated and stored all of the following documents in a safe place today:

• Medical records
• A will or advanced care plan
• Birth certificate
• Power of attorney
• Social security card
• Organ donor information
• Contact information for doctors, extended family, close friends, etc.
• Deeds property and titles to vehicles
• Trust documentation
• Life insurance and medical insurance policies
• Funeral and burial wishes documented

Just the process of collecting and updating these documents can take hours, even days. It can be stressful, so be sure to stay calm and understand that knowing where these documents are will provide at least some peace of mind when future events become more stressful.

2. Discuss Financial Planning

Unfortunately, aging and medical care in later years can be expensive. Costs show no sign of going down, so now is the time to help your parents enlist the help of a trusted financial planning expert. Your financial planner can help you and your parents set aside funds, decide on long-term care insurance policies and prepare for whatever might come in the future. On a happier note, the sooner they start planning, the more options they have for income to enjoy life on later too. And again, smart financial planning now can provide peace of mind in the future when peace of mind may feel elusive.

3. Consider Home Care Needs

Home care is becoming the most popular way for aging loved ones to spend their golden years. Instead of moving into an unfamiliar setting with unfamiliar people, seniors can now receive services like skilled nursing care, therapy and other assisted living services like bathing, dressing, light housework, cooking and help with medications, right in their own homes. Not only is this often a more affordable route, it’s one that helps your parents maintain as much independence and comfort as possible as they age.

Discuss these 3 things with your aging parents today so that you won’t be forced to make panicked, emotionally-wrought decisions during stressful times. This will make those hard times a little smoother. If you have questions or need advice on how to best help your aging parents, please call our At Home Personal Care team today: (703) 494-3989.