Dos and Don’ts for Communicating with Your Elderly Parents About Financial and Other Sensitive Matters

Do:

• Pick a place and time without distractions
• Use “I” statements and talk about “my views” and “my feelings.”
• Consider having a mutually trusted person present.
• Be clear about the topic of discussion.
• Slow down and allow time for the topic to be mentally processed to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Respect the right of others to agree or disagree.
• Be assertive and clear about your beliefs and allow others to express their beliefs.
• Keep your emotions and reactions in check.
• Practice what you want to say with someone who can give you unbiased feedback.
• Treat the discussion as a door opener and be prepared to continue the conversation at a later date.