Starting a conversation with an aging parent about their health and the care they may need in the future isn’t easy. There are many approaches to be taken.
There are three things to keep in mind:
1) Be specific. Don’t necessarily start with the big questions, but begin by asking such things as “How often do you go to the grocery store?” or “Is it hard to carry in the groceries?” Their answers to specific questions like this can help you assess the situation.
2) Start by talking about others. You might try asking them how they dealt with their own parents as they started to age. You might get some ideas about what they would want for themselves.
3) Be honest. Tell them what you are worried about and be direct. If you honestly express your own feelings, they may do the same.
