GEN024 An important conversation (550 words)

Older people tend to be very private around subjects like their finances, estate planning and aged care, etc. This article provides information around what you should be discussing with an elderly relative, and how to open a two-way conversation that puts everyone’s mind at rest.

None of us likes to consider our own mortality. For our older loved ones, it’s an even more confronting topic and difficult to discuss.

When Lindsay became ill, his family’s priority was to support him through his treatment, and keep him positive and as comfortable as possible.

Typical of his generation, Lindsay had always been very private, never sharing personal information – not even with his nearest and dearest. After he passed away, it dawned on the family that nobody knew whether Lindsay would have preferred cremation or burial. At such an emotionally charged time, the question caused quite a dispute.

As parents, we aim to have open dialogue with our children over issues like drugs, sex, etc. But as our parents age, difficult discussions around medical arrangements, Wills, money, etc, are usually put off until something occurs to trigger the talk. Often, by then it’s too late, which is why it’s so important to communicate while you still can.