Growing up, some conversations between parents and their children prove more difficult than others. For instance, you may have a hard time talking to your mom and dad about their end-of-life plans here in Florida.
Money Crashers offers some insight into the most essential questions to ask your parents regarding their estate and advanced care. If you can get past your reluctance, this could be one of the most important conversations you have with your mother and father.
Steps taken so far
Your parents could be further along in this department than you think. Ask if they have named beneficiaries and an executor, created a will and trust or written down healthcare decisions if rendered incapable of speaking for themselves.
Location of essential documents
Say that your parents have started planning their estate. If so, where are the documents? Common locations include in a safety deposit box, with an attorney or in a home safe. Additionally, be sure you have access to bank accounts, financial records, deeds and the like.
Long-term care
Your parents may need to reside in an assisted living facility or nursing home. Ask if they have a preference for such long-term care. You should also figure out how to pay for necessary care. It is a good idea to go ahead and look into supplementary means of payment in case long-term care is more expensive than anticipated.
Remain updated
Once you have had this essential discussion with your parents, check in with them every few years regarding their estate. Time (and their most-current financial state) can change their minds about their end-of-life desires.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
