The Big Talk—Why Talking Post-Death Wishes and Affairs Matters to Your Family

Let’s face it—no one wants to talk about death, let alone their own. It’s an uncomfortable topic, and stirs up many emotions. However, for all families, it’s also an important discussion that needs to happen at some point, especially if you are caring for elderly parents.

As a senior, you need to communicate your wishes, while also letting your loved ones know how to access important information, like life insurance policies, wills, and more. On the other hand, if you’re the loved one of a senior and are caring for elderly parents, you need to know his or her wishes. In this blog, we’re going to take a closer look at “The Big Talk,” and give your family tips and insights to facilitate positive, productive communication on a sometimes uncomfortable topic.

From The Senior’s Perspective

Your own mortality conjures many feelings, but let’s look at this situation from your loved one’s point of view. Death brings out both the best and the worst in people, and you want to help your surviving loved ones navigate this situation to the best of their abilities. When you plan ahead and communicate your wishes, you help preserve your family’s legacy, harmony, and support them even when you can no longer be with them.

An estate planner or legal counsel can help you ensure your affairs are in order so that you provide your family with an understandable roadmap to your wishes. If you are caring for elderly parents, you should let them know what is available. This will help take the stress and trauma off of them at what will be a difficult time. By communicating openly about these matters now, you foster a positive, constructive, and comforting environment for your family later.

From the Loved One’s Perspective

If your parent or loved one approaches you with The Big Talk, don’t brush it off, or offer platitudes like, “You’ll live forever!” They are passing along important information that, down the road, you will be incredibly grateful to have. Death always brings emotional turmoil, no matter how expected, and your family doesn’t need the pressure of decision-making under distress.

Likewise, you’ll want to know about pensions, life insurance, wills, and other matters that you’ll be facing. If your parent has yet to communicate his or her wishes to you, try to approach the topic gently and in the spirit of honor and support. Keep a positive and constructive attitude so that you show your respect for the seriousness of their affairs.

The Big Talk doesn’t even need to be “big.” It’s simply a conversation that informs, educates, and prevents confusion and stress down the road. By fostering open communication, you’ll help your family face future challenges confident and well-prepared while caring for elderly parents.