The 40/70 Connection For Conversation About Aging

DETROIT (WWJ) - How difficult is it do discuss aging issues with your parents?

Local senior care experts encourage families to connect and provide tips on tackling tough conversations about aging reports WWJ's Brooke Allen.

Bert Copple, owner of one of the Home Instead Senior Care, gives a timeline for talking about the subject.

Discussing aging issues, such as living arrangements, finances, dating, end-of-life decisions and driving, early and often can save families years of heartache, tension and even legal battles said Copple.

"The rule is if you're 40 and your parents are in their 70s, the time is now to talk about these issues before an emergency or crisis arises," said Copple.

Yet, research indicates that about two-thirds of American families put off these conversations, either because they are uncomfortable with the topics or they just don't know where to start.

The idea behind the "40-70 Rule" is that by the time adult children are age 40 and their parents are age 70, they should have these critical conversations that will impact the parents' future.

"Unfortunately, it is often not until a crisis happens that families consider these important discussions," said Copple. "Although the prospect of addressing sensitive topics can often be intimidating, it's critical for these conversations to happen before it's too late."

He says there is often a noticeable gap between the wishes of the senior parents and their children.

You can find helpful ways to address the conversation [here].