CSA Leaders Network

Program: Communicating with family members about aging issues (45 min)
Presenter: Heather Winslow-Walker

Parents often say they don’t want to be a burden to children as they age but they don’t always plan and communicate in such a way as to avoid becoming that unanticipated weight. This unintended approach can leave children feeling anxious, unprepared and at risk for unexpected financial commitments, caregiving responsibilities, and family dynamics. This session will equip providers who support aging clients to understand what family members need to proactively communicate, when to communicate, and how to approach these sensitive conversations.
 
Session objectives: At the end of the session, participants will be able to:
·         Identify what aspects of a parent’s aging plan needs to be proactively communicated with family members.
·         Understand ideal timeframes for communicating aging plans among family members.
·         Describe approaches for how a parent or adult child can initiate and maintain conversations with family members about aging plans, issues, or concerns.