No one wants to think about getting older, much less talk about it, but the reality is that we all get a bit older every day. Bringing up the topic can be weird and challenging, so I decided to create a list of ideas on how you can bring up the conversation with your older loved ones.

Here are some engaging conversation starters you can use to break the ice:

1. "How are you feeling about getting older? Do you have any concerns or worries?"

2. "Have you thought about what you want your retirement to look like? Do you have any plans in place?"

3. "I was reading about aging in place, and I thought it might be a good option for you. Have you considered it?"

4. "What are some things you still want to accomplish in life?"

5. "Have you thought about your future healthcare needs? Would you like me to help you look into some options?"

6. "I would love to hear more about your life experiences. Can you share some stories with me?"

7. "Have you thought about downsizing your home or making any other changes to prepare for the future?"

8. "How can I best support you as you get older? There’s a lot to navigate and I want to help."

These conversation starters can help open up a dialogue around aging and retirement planning, and show your parents that you are there to support and assist them as they age. It's important to approach these conversations with empathy, respect, and a willingness to listen to your parents' thoughts and concerns.