How to talk to your parents about end-of-life planning

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October 20, 2026 / 11:14 AM EDT / CBS News

There are some financial conversations families can put off without much consequence, but a discussion about end-of-life plans with aging family members isn't necessarily one of them. Without a clear understanding of what an aging parent wants, adult children may eventually have to make difficult financial, medical and logistical decisions with little guidance — and could end up doing so during an already stressful time.

Still, bringing up the subject can be uncomfortable. Talking about wills, medical wishes, funeral arrangements or who will handle the finances if a parent becomes incapacitated can feel intrusive, particularly when a parent is still healthy and independent. Parents may also be reluctant to discuss their finances with their children or may view the conversation as unnecessary.

But end-of-life planning involves more than just determining what happens to someone's assets after they die. It can also affect how bills are paid, how medical decisions are handled and how family members navigate an emergency. So, while there may never be a perfect time to start the…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/moneywatch/