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If your parents or other family members are approaching their senior years, it’s smart to initiate frank discussions about elder care and wills. Though these conversations can be difficult, as they involve sensitive, sometimes taboo topics like money and death, estate law attorneys often advise you do so as soon as possible to record their wishes and preferences before it’s too late. To help you navigate this delicate situation, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Set Aside Time & Communicate Clearly

You don’t want to ambush your loved ones with a conversation about wills and estates. Instead, ask them to set up a specific meeting time with you for that purpose so that everyone is mentally and emotionally prepared.

It’s easy for misunderstandings and disagreements to arise during these discussions. Make an effort to understand others’ perspectives and reasoning and ask clarifying questions. It’s also helpful to repeat what is said in your own words to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Focus on the Estate Owner’s Wishes

Estate LawQuestions of inheritance can be emotionally fraught for everyone in the conversation, not just the older generation. Resist the urge to argue or convince your loved ones of your preferences. There is no right way to divide an estate; instead, focus the discussion on finding out what your loved ones want.

Similarly, conversations about money and treasured possessions can quickly deteriorate into rehashing old conflicts. But personal baggage is not the point of this meeting. Set aside those discussions for another time and focus on the practical aspects of the will and other arrangements. To this end, it can help to have an estate law attorney present to guide the formalities.

 

If you or your loved ones are ready to start planning today, the Shelton Law Firm, serving Chariton, IA, and surrounding areas, is the go-to source for estate law matters. Since 1980, their experienced lawyers have provided quality legal aid and counsel throughout Lucas County and all of southern Iowa. To arrange a consultation with an estate law attorney, call them at (641) 774-5956 or send a message online.

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