It's Mother's Day – what did you give her? How about peace of mind?

If your mother does not have an estate plan, start talking to her — perhaps in one conversation, perhaps over time — about the peace of mind for both her and you which comes from knowing that her affairs are in order. Ask her about her fears and concerns if she can't care for herself and see how you can turn the conversation into an opportunity to talk about planning for the future. She needs to hear — gently and diplomatically — how much you would like to help her, but she needs to create the documents which will allow you to do that — not just a Will, but a Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, Advance Directive and HIPAA (Medical) Release. Then talk to her about finding the right attorney to help. An experienced elder law attorney can counsel your mother about her options and educate her about how her documents will work. Of course, if your mother is in eastern or central Massachusetts, I'd be pleased to help. Otherwise, you can find an elder law attorney at http://www.naela.org.