While you acknowledge the private nature of planning long-term care, you may feel concerned that your parents in Georgia are unable to see the value of developing such a plan. Out of genuine concern for their well-being and with a desire to provide for their needs as comfortably as possible, you may wonder how to bring up the topic of long-term care.
The way you approach the topic of planning for long-term care needs may influence how effective the discussion is and whether or not your parents respond in an understanding manner.
Knowing the right time to plan
Contrary to what many believe, there is no such thing as prematurely planning for your future. At some point, you will need some form of plan to provide valuable information to your loved ones in regard to your desires for medical treatment, the delegation of your assets and other critical end-of-life decisions. Helping your parents see the value of being proactive may support your effort to encourage them to begin planning for their future.
Regardless of when your parents begin to plan, earlier development of a plan may encourage peace of mind and reduce the risk of you and other surviving family members having to scramble for clarity in moments of uncertainty.
Preparing for a discussion
With as important a subject as long-term care planning, it is critical that you spend adequate time preparing. According to the American Association of Retired Persons, posing your concerns as questions and allowing your parents to come up with a conclusion is an excellent way to be gentle and inclusive in your approach. Never force the conversation or try to exert control. Understand the value of listening, remain objective and refrain from allowing your opinions to dictate your reaction to the conversation. The more genuine and sincere you are, you may encourage responsiveness and interest from your parents.
Kevin Tharpe
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