While you understand the importance of planning your estate and drafting all the documents, you may struggle to discuss your end-of-life desires openly. How do you bring up the matter with your family and friends?
AARP offers tips for sharing your estate plans with loved ones. Ensure you understand how to have a vital conversation and protect your interests.
Prepare
Before you speak with those closest to you, have a conversation with yourself. Figure out which concerns you want to discuss, such as finances and taking care of loved ones. If you need to prepare for the conversation mentally, do what you need to do to get centered before the discussion.
Consider
Have you thought about what matters the most to you regarding end-of-life care? For instance, what medical treatments or procedures do you accept to prolong your life? Do you have someone to make decisions for you if you become incapacitated? During your last days, do you want to be at home or a medical care facility?
Share
Think about whom to include in the discussion. You may only want to have the conversation once. You may also want to bring up the matter in a specific setting, such as a family reunion or family dinner. Figure out the three most essential things you want to discuss. Some relatives or friends could disagree with your desires or push back. If they do, try to understand their perspective rather than engage in an argument.
Talking about your estate and end-of-life desires may bring you and your relatives and friends peace of mind. Overcoming your hesitation regarding the matter helps protect your wishes.