Reply to Is it normal for parents (70s) to not have told their kids anything about estate planning?

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[quote=Anonymous]OP - yes, definitely have the conversation(s) now when things are as good as they're going to be because things can/do only get worse. There are basic estate planning documents available online, and some conversational prompts too. Perhaps start with a casual conversation about their thoughts on estate planning in general? A lot of people think that estate planning is really only for the wealthy but it's not - it can include a suite of documents including medical directives, and is designed to direct the decedent's wishes after death. Check out AARP web site.

Another resource is a trusts and estate attorney. Many do house calls. So you could have the attorney come by for a consultation when you and DH are at their home, and do some HW with the atty about guiding a conversation. Although a decent attorney will be accustomed to resistance and this dynamic. You can look at the Trusts and Estate section of your state's bar association; ask around friends; the old google machine... lots of resources.

I think the best way you can approach them is with compassion, because ultimately the estate documents are helpful to *all* involved, and giving the next generation peace of mind is often many seniors' main goal. The medical stuff in particular, because it's more than just power of attorney - there's a variety of living wills, advanced medical directives, etc, that are useful to have in advance. Add in a little gallows humor, because if you can't laugh *and* cry about this stuff you'll never get through it. My parents call their stuff their 'doomsday folder' and always say goodbye before a big trip reminding us where it is!

Good luck. I hope that 1 year from now you have it squared away. [/quote]

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