<p>Do you know your parents plans, who will speak for them when they can’t speak for themselves?</p>
<p>What state are you in?
I beleive most states have programs in place to assist seniors & their families.
Are you interested in a power of attorney?
[Commission</a> on Law and Aging | Special Committees and Commissions / Commission on Law and Aging](<a href=“http://www.americanbar.org/groups/law_aging.html]Commission”>Commission on Law and Aging)</p>
<p>You may find this thread helpful to you: <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parent-cafe/1385049-parents-caring-parent-support-thread.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parent-cafe/1385049-parents-caring-parent-support-thread.html</a></p>
<p>If folks want to make plans, they should have a durable power of attorney and medical durable power of attorney drawn up, so THEY have control over who will be their voice. This is often part of the estate planning package. They can also specify their wishes about end of life care, which is a tremendous service to the family, loved ones and medical providers.</p>
<p>It took a lot of nagging from my sister and me to finally get my parents (who are in their 80’s but still healthy) to see an attorney who specializes in elder law. My dad is an attorney so he thinks he knows everything, but we finally convinced him that a specialist was needed. </p>
<p>Everything has been set up with me having POA and my sister having the medical POA but in a way that either of us can assume the other role if one of us is unavailable. They also had a revocable trust set up. </p>
<p>My parents also have long term care insurance - have had it for a long time - so I know they can remain in their own home for several years if need be.</p>