Parent and Child
When planning for long term care, it is important for parents to communicate plans with their adult children. Discuss ideas together. This could be especially sensitive if you are considering actions such as selling your home, moving to another community, or other big decisions. Children may become upset if plans are announced as finalized and they know nothing about what happened.
When you make decisions about your advance directives, power of attorney, etc., be sure to let your family know what those plans are. Put your plans in writing, have it notarized and make copies for all involved individuals. Then in the event of an emergency, the family will know your wishes.
In caregiving situations, adult children may find themselves caring for parents. The role of “helping out” may gradually become more demanding over a period of time or caregiving may become a sudden necessity due to a health crisis. Talk with your adult children in advance about your feelings concerning long-term care needs.
