How to deal with resistance when talking about elder planning with aging parents

Your parents are getting older – and they’ve lived a long, fulfilling life, completely and entirely independently. The topic of elder planning may be met with resistance — but don’t shy away. Here’s how you should move forward if your folks don’t want to talk about their future.

In today’s episode of your Money Minute with Tracy Stewart, CPA, I want to share some practical tips on preparing for resistance from your aging parents when talking about elder planning. Yes, your parents are fiercely independent and have, to this point, not needed any help. That can change — in an instant. Are you ready to have the conversation on long-term care and your parents’ needs as they get older?

This conversation must be approached gently, I can’t stress that enough. If your parents are hesitant or resistant — back off. Your best approach is to move slowly, going forward inch by inch at their pace. Look for opportunities to initiate the discussion, but also look for signs when you need to take your foot off the gas a bit.

Most importantly of all, listen to your parents. They’ve lived well and, fortunately for all involved, they’ve lived a long life. Hear them out and understand what independence means to them. You can find compromise and clarity in their perspectives.

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