The adult children of elderly parents often feel so much pressure; Pressure to care for their own young children, pressure to run their business or do their job while planning for their own retirement, and pressure to maintain their marriage and social obligations.
Add the fact that the adult child lives far away and is suddenly expected to care for one or both elderly parents.
What are the elderly parents actual needs and how do those needs get met? What other family members are going to assist and if they don't assist, what actions taken will they criticize? What obligations do you have under the Probate Code and applicable tax laws? Do you have the time necessary to review all the details and avoid costly errors?
Even if you have a great relationship with your aging parent, developing resources, during a time of crisis, can be the most challenging. You and your loved ones are at your most vulnerable, unless there is a plan already in place.
With so much to think about, it is a comfort to know there are qualified trained professionals to rely on, with many years of experience, who do this work every day.
In many cases, while we serve in the capacity of Trustee, Executor and Attorney-in-Fact (see "Your Estate Plan" for more information about these roles), we often recommend that a family member, even if living out of state, act as the first Agent for Health Care. Most decisions can be initiated by phone, fax or email, saving travel for when absolutely necessary. We are often named as "Alternate" agents under this document, in case the first agents cannot be reached or cannot serve.
The duty as Agent (under the Advance Health Care Directive) could begin with taking the elderly parent to doctor's appointments or could begin when the elderly parent can no longer speak for her/himself in terms of medical or financial decisions. It is a great comfort to all concerned that family is involved when a serious illness occurs.
If you are concerned about your elderly adult parents, and they live in California, please contact us. You can be of great service to your parents, to your children and your self by getting the Estate Plan done with the right team ready to serve.
Our Clients no longer manage everything alone, we are there when they need us
"Thanks for taking over when you did. I don't worry about anything anymore..." A.B., age 83
"I feel like I am surrounded by angels." C.D., age 93
"I like that when I ask a question, you take time to really answer me."E.F., age 81
The names of the above clients have been changed to protect their privacy. For testimonials from professionals we have worked with, click here.
