How to Talk to Your Aging Parents About Estate Planning
Jake Slowik

A Practical Guide from Slowik Estate Planning in Georgia

Discussing estate planning with aging parents is rarely easy—but it’s one of the most important conversations you can have. Without a clear plan in place, families can face unnecessary stress, financial burdens, and even legal disputes. At Slowik Estate Planning, we help Georgia families navigate these sensitive discussions with care, compassion, and clarity.

Here’s how to approach the topic with confidence and ensure your loved ones are legally protected.

Why This Conversation Matters

Many older adults delay estate planning because it feels overwhelming or uncomfortable. But without a valid will, trust, or power of attorney in place, decisions may fall to the court system—not family members. Planning ahead helps:

  • Ensure your parents’ wishes are honored

  • Protect assets from probate delays and legal fees

  • Appoint trusted people to manage healthcare and finances

  • Reduce family conflict and confusion

When to Start the Conversation

The ideal time to talk is before a crisis occurs. Waiting until a parent is seriously ill or unable to communicate can limit their legal options and increase emotional strain.

Use natural life events as openers:

  • A family member’s illness or passing

  • Retirement or downsizing

  • A recent news story about estate issues

  • Tax season or financial planning milestones

Tips for a Respectful and Productive Discussion

1. Pick the Right Time and Place

Avoid holidays or stressful moments. Choose a quiet, private setting where everyone feels comfortable.

2. Lead With Empathy

Start by expressing concern for their well-being. Example:
“We want to make sure your wishes are followed and your affairs are in order, just in case something unexpected happens.”

3. Ask, Don’t Assume

Instead of dictating what they “should” do, ask open-ended questions:

  • “Have you thought about who you’d want to handle things if you couldn’t?”

  • “Is your will up to date with your current wishes?”

4. Bring in a Trusted Professional

Mentioning a local attorney can help take pressure off the family. Let them know Slowik Estate Planning offers supportive, no-pressure consultations tailored to Georgia residents.

Key Documents to Discuss

Encourage your parents to consider these foundational tools:

  • Last Will and Testament – Outlines asset distribution and guardianship wishes

  • Financial Power of Attorney – Appoints someone to handle finances if they’re incapacitated

  • Healthcare Power of Attorney & Living Will – Names a medical decision-maker and outlines care preferences

  • Revocable Living Trust (if applicable) – Avoids probate and keeps matters private

How Slowik Estate Planning Can Help

We understand that estate planning is deeply personal. At Slowik Estate Planning, our Georgia-based team creates customized plans that reflect your family’s values, goals, and legacy.

We’ll work directly with your parents—at their pace and comfort level—to draft legally sound, future-ready documents.