End-of-life planning touches deeply on topics and decisions that can be uncomfortable to talk about. Still, these conversations are quite important. For many adult children caring for elderly parents, it is an emotionally charged conversation and there is often a great deal of uncertainty, questions, hesitation, and stress about how to even start this difficult discussion. Senior Helpers Chestnut Hill has you covered, with everything you need to know about talking to your parents about end-of-life planning.
Reasons To Talk To Your Elderly Parent About End-Of-Life Planning
If your elderly parents have not made any plans about their wishes for the future, it will be up to you to make sure those arrangements are in place and that everything is taken care of. This should include conversations with them so they can understand all the options available as well as provide input on what they prefer. Additionally, end-of-life planning can also help promote communication, understanding, and closure among family members.
How To Talk To Your Elderly Parent About End-Of-Life Planning
It is important to begin a dialogue with your elderly parents as soon as possible. Still, you should take care to make sure that the conversation is comfortable. Planning can help with this. Consider what questions you’ll ask, resources that might help guide the discussion, and how to provide comfort and assurance for both parties throughout the process. Simply beginning the conversation about end-of-life planning might ease anxiety on all sides when it comes time to implement those wishes.
Find The Right Time
Finding the right time to talk about this sensitive and important subject can be difficult. Consider times when your parents are in good spirits and look for a calm setting. You should also think about involving other family members or even caregivers during your discussion if needed.The goal is to make it a comfortable space for all involved so that everyone's voice can be heard during the discussion.
What To Discuss
When having these conversations, it's important to ask open-ended questions and focus on what your parent(s) would want to have resolved. Here are some end-of-life planning topics you may want to discuss:
- Type of hospice care desired by your parents.
- Special medical wishes for comfort at the end of life including CPR and being an organ donor.
- Financial arrangements such as setting up a trust, advanced directives, powers of attorney, etc., as well as specific funeral desires if applicable
- Is there someone that can act on behalf of your senior if needed?
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Tough Subjects
As difficult and daunting this subject can be, discussing end-of-life planning with your elderly parent is important. The right team of professionals, including Senior Helpers Chestnut Hill care experts if needed, can help guide you through the process while providing necessary support throughout. We offer support through specialized senior care to individuals in the Philadelphia, Bala Cynwyd, Chestnut Hill, Narberth, and Montgomery County areas. Contact us today to learn more about our services!