As our parents get older, it's hard to know how best to approach difficult discussions about end-of-life planning. It's important to ensure that you approach the conversation with respect and understanding and that you select the right time and place. In this article, we will discuss how to start the conversation and what topics to discuss to make sure that financial and medical decisions are covered.
Reasons To Talk About End-Of-Life Planning
When approaching the conversation about end-of-life planning, it's important to remember that it is about respecting your parent and ensuring that their wishes are taken into consideration. Having these discussions, as uncomfortable as they may be at the time, will help protect your parents' legacy and make the entire process simpler for everyone involved. They will have peace of mind knowing that there are clear instructions and can take time to make their decisions.
How To Approach The Conversation
When it comes to the conversation about end-of-life planning, it's important to be respectful and understanding. It may be helpful to have multiple discussions so that your parent can have time and space to consider each of the medical and financial pieces. Between conversations, you can do research and help answer their questions.
What To Discuss
There are many different aspects to end-of-life planning that can help ensure that your elderly parent's medical and financial needs are taken care of. Financial planning, living wills, power of attorney, accessing legal documents, medical decisions, and funeral arrangements are just a few of the topics that need to be discussed.
Financial Considerations
While financial considerations may seem to be the least relevant for end-of-life planning, they can be the most critical. Setting up a power of attorney will make sure that accounts can be accessed and finances managed even if your parent isn't able to handle things themselves. Your parent can also set beneficiaries on various financial accounts so that these assets pass on outside of the probate process. Because the probate process varies by state and can be complex, the more planning your parent does upfront the better.
Medical Considerations
Planning for end-of-life should also include clear instructions about medical directives. Your parent will want to think about setting up a living will. This legal document will lay out clear instructions for medical treatment if your parent is unable to make decisions for themselves. Thinking about these decisions now can help make sure that their wishes are respected.
Senior Helpers Provides Compassionate Care Services
End-of-life planning with an elderly parent can be a difficult and emotional conversation to have. By approaching the conversation with respect and understanding, and by discussing the necessary topics, you will be able to ensure that your elderly parent's wishes, both medical and financial are respected. Whatever choices your parents make, be sure that everyone understands where these important documents are located and how to access them.
For more information on care services for your parent or senior loved one, contact Senior Helpers Boston North today. Our professional in-home caregivers can assist with everything from helping get documents notarized to weekly meal planning. We support seniors in and around the North Shore, Merrimack Valley, Cape Ann, Burlington, Lexington, Newburyport, Marblehead, Peabody, and Melrose areas.