Thanks to healthier lifestyles and advances in modern medicine, the worldwide population over age 65 is growing. In the past decade, the population of Americans aged 65 and older has grown 38%. As our nation ages, many Americans are turning their attention to caring for aging parents.1
For many people, one of the most difficult conversations to have involves talking with an aging parent about extended medical care. The shifting of roles can be challenging, and emotions often prevent important information from being exchanged and critical decisions from being made.
When talking to a parent about future care, it’s best to have a strategy for structuring the conversation. Here are some key concepts to consider.
Cover the Basics
Knowing ahead of time what information you need to find out may help keep the conversation on track. Here is a checklist that can be a good starting point:
Primary physician
Specialists
Medications and supplements
Allergies to medication
It is also important to know the location of medical and estate management paperwork, including:2
Medicare card
Insurance information
Durable power of attorney for healthcare
Will, living will, trusts, and other documents
Be Thorough
Remember that if you can collect all the critical information, you may be able to save your family time and avoid future emotional discussions. While checklists and scripts may help prepare you, remember that this conversation could signal a major change in your parent’s life. The transition from provider to dependent can be difficult for any parent and has the potential to unearth old issues. Be prepared for emotions and the unexpected. Be kind, but do your best to get all the information you need.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
This conversation is probably not the only one you will have with your parent about their future healthcare needs. It may be the beginning of an ongoing dialogue. Consider involving other siblings in the discussions. Often one sibling takes a lead role when caring for parents, but all family members should be honest about their feelings, situations, and needs.
Don't Procrastinate
The earlier you begin to communicate about important issues, the more likely you will be to have all the information you need when a crisis arises. How will you know when a parent needs your help? Look for indicators like fluctuations in weight, failure to take medication, new health concerns, and diminished social interaction. These can all be warning signs that additional care may soon become necessary. Don’t avoid the topic of care just because you are uncomfortable. Chances are that waiting will only make you more so.
Remember, whatever your relationship with your parent has been, this new phase of life will present challenges for both parties. By treating your parent with love and respect—and taking the necessary steps toward open communication—you will be able to provide the help needed during this new phase of life.
FAQs About Caring for Aging Parents
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Start with a calm, compassionate conversation focused on your parents’ wishes, health, and independence. Discuss their primary care physician, medications, insurance coverage, and preferences for future medical care. Gathering this information early can help your family make informed decisions and prepare for unexpected changes.
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Important documents include Medicare and health insurance information, a durable power of attorney for health care, a will, a living will, trusts, and other estate planning documents. Knowing where these records are stored and who is authorized to make decisions can help your family navigate medical and financial matters more efficiently. Consult an estate planning attorney about which documents are appropriate for your family.
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Financial planning can help families evaluate potential medical expenses, insurance coverage, in-home assistance, and other long-term care needs. Reviewing your parents’ income, savings, assets, and existing retirement plan can help identify resources and potential funding gaps. A financial advisor can help you understand how these costs may affect your parents’ financial security and your own long-term goals.
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Potential warning signs include unexplained weight changes, missed medications, new or worsening health concerns, difficulty managing daily tasks, and reduced social interaction. These changes may indicate that additional support is needed. Discuss concerns with your parent and their healthcare provider to determine appropriate next steps.
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Open communication is essential when siblings share responsibility for an aging parent. Discuss each family member’s availability, financial circumstances, concerns, and ability to provide support. Agreeing on responsibilities and keeping everyone informed can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that care decisions reflect your parent’s wishes.
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Planning ahead gives families more time to understand their parents’ preferences, organize important documents, and address questions about medical care and financial decision-making. Establishing appropriate legal documents before an emergency can make it easier for authorized individuals to act when needed. Early conversations also allow parents to participate in decisions about their future while they can clearly communicate their wishes.
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A financial advisor can help families evaluate how potential caregiving expenses fit into retirement plans, savings strategies, and broader financial goals. For adult children who are also saving for their own retirement or supporting other family members, coordinating these competing priorities can be especially important. Atlantic Wealth Advisors in Glastonbury, Connecticut, can help families consider their financial picture and plan for changing needs while coordinating with appropriate legal and tax professionals.
1. Census.gov, 2025
2. Note: Power of attorney laws can vary from state to state. An estate strategy that includes trusts may involve a complex web of tax rules and regulations. Consider working with a knowledgeable estate management professional before implementing such strategies.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2026 FMG Suite.
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