Newsletter Archive

Organizing Tip

Your family is far flung, but you always make it home for the holidays. You notice Mom and Dad are not doing quite as well this year as last. You realize you don't know as much about their affairs as you should. How do you start the conversation?

Pick a quiet time and a comfortable location. Be sure your parents can hear without distractions. Choose one topic--health, safety in the home, finances, legal matters, or end-of-life planning. Try a gentle sideways approach. Perhaps begin by sharing your experience. "Mom, Doug and I just updated our wills. When did you and Dad last update your wills?"

Your conversation may go well or it may be a little bumpy. You will need to persist. Remember, it's not just one conversation. It's the start of many conversations. 

Do you need a certified copy of an important document? Do you want to go paperless, but lack confidence about what to shred? Do you know the safest place to file important papers? Do you have fantasies about getting off junk mailing lists?

Reply with your record keeping questions and watch for answers in future e-mails.