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As important as comprehensive estate planning can be, it can be a difficult conversation to broach with your aging parents. Many elderly people will avoid this difficult discussion, and some may simply be intimidated by the prospect of talking to an attorney about their final wishes and the complexities of drawing up a will. Below are a few tips for getting your parents to open up about their estate plans.

5 Tips for Discussing Estate Planning With Your Parents

1. Be Prepared to Have Multiple Conversations

If your parents are reluctant to discuss these sensitive topics, getting them to understand the importance of writing a will and making them comfortable could take awhile. Instead of trying to convince them in a single conversation, which can be overwhelming, treat the matter as an ongoing discussion involving a wide range of important decisions.

2. Have a Professional Weigh In

attorneyMany parents who resist talking to their children about important financial and health matters might be willing to listen to an outside professional. If you think it would help, consider having a financial advisor, attorney, or other professional sit in on your discussions and offer their insight.

3. Take a Compassionate Approach

No matter how frustrated you might be, it’s important to avoid taking an accusatory tone with your parents. Once you’ve expressed your own worries and concerns, take the time to listen and give them space to open up about their fears and hesitations.

4. Don’t Judge Their Decisions

Decisions regarding the division of your parents’ assets or end-of-life care are theirs to make, so avoid expressing any disagreement with their choices. If you’re having trouble remaining impartial, consider scheduling an appointment with an estate planning attorney who can manage the rest of the process.

5. Seek Legal Counsel

Estate planning is notoriously complex, so it’s always best to let an attorney actually draft your parents’ documents and ensure they’re legally valid. They can also identify potential issues with their plan and recommend solutions to prevent family conflicts and other problems later.


 

Since 1972, the attorneys at Sanders, Ranck & Skilling, P.C. have offered compassionate guidance and expert legal advice at affordable prices to clients throughout north and middle Georgia. If you’re helping your parents prepare an estate plan or updating your own will, this law firm will ensure your wishes are respected. Visit their website for a complete look at their practice areas, follow their Facebook for tips and updates, or call (706) 886-7533 to schedule a consultation.

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