Money becomes one of the major concerns when a family starts the process of ensuring best possible care for our senior loved ones. It is the time when we should start talking about it with our aging parents as well as all the members of the family.
However, we have often seen that
starting this so important money talk becomes somewhat uncomfortable to begin.
If you are also encountering problems about this issue and have been pondering
about how you should start discussing this issue then do not think that you are
alone in this. We have brought to you some guiding ideas in this matter.
Recognize the Importance
Firstly before even starting the
conversation you have to realize the importance of the issue yourself. You have
to acknowledge that saving for retirement and planning out all the financial
issues beforehand is very much necessary. Besides, you have to know that
keeping all the financial data like tax information, bank account and
insurances information along with keeping all the financial reports in place is
necessary. You should also know that creating a well-developed will is also
becomes essential at this stage.
Start with General Topics
When attempting to start
discussing the financial topics with your aging parents, start with general but
related topics like what’s their plan for their retirement or something like
that instead of jumping on the topic right away. That way you will get simple
cues to take the matter to more serious issues gradually.
Tell Them Your Own Plans
You can start by telling your own
financial initiatives and retirement plans to them to set the introduction. Let
them know how important it is to have a financial plan ready for your
retirement and the declining years.
Don’t Impose
Once you get to know all the
details about their plans and overall financial conditions start placing
options to them. Look for possible lacks in the plan or possible improvements.
Like if they have not created a centralized storage of all the financial data
then suggest or offer to do that for them. Or if they have not made a will then
offer to arrange a family lawyer to sketch that out for them. But you should
never impose any decision upon them, make sure to be as a trusted adviser.
Involve All the Members in the Discourse
Many families struggle to amass
all the money that we often need to ensure proper care for our loved ones. Then
the discussion becomes even more uncomfortable at times. Then you will not only
have to know the financial condition of your parents but also all the siblings
responsible for ensuring the best care possible. So, at this stage, you just
have to involve all the members in the discourse and discuss a way out of it.
Have a Financial Adviser
After trying all you can, if you
fail to reach your goals or fail to make your parents realize all the issues
then you may consider having a financial advisor to discuss it with them for
you. Besides, an adviser will be able to better guide you all in terms of
taxes, insurances, will and other such issues.
For any help and support regarding
senior care, health, senior living and well-being do not hesitate to contact Comfort Keepers.
No comments:
Post a Comment