“The Talk” is a discussion that should take place sooner rather than later.

It is the time when adult children need to sit down with their parents to help make sure that they have planned for their future.  The Cass County COA is helping to promote this conversation with a panel discussion called “The Talk” that will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 10 at Front Street Crossing in Dowagiac.

“For many adult children, the decision to sit down with their parents is put off for another day,” stated the COA’s Keryl Conkright, R.N., Care Services Team Leader. “Most often the decision to take action is event-driven.  Something happens to a parent and by that time it is too late to plan.  Making the decision to have ‘the talk’ should not be put off.  Adult children need to have an honest discussion about money, health, treasured mementos and who will be available to provide caregiving for an aging parent.”

As most literature will attest, the decision to have these types of discussions is never made and parents are floundering and children are left helpless because there is nothing documented.  This panel discussion is intended to help both adult children and their parents start the conversation to solidify financial issues, caregiving decisions and build a set of resources.

“This discussion is so important, I would recommend that any adult with an aging parent take the afternoon off to attend this panel,” said Conkright.  “We have gathered some of the best people in our community to address these critical topics.”

“The Talk” will be facilitated by Kathy Johnson who will present a panel of the following people as part of the discussion:

• Judge Susan Dobrich — Powers of Attorney, Guardianships and Wills

• Keryl Conkright, R.N. — COA Care Services & Resources

• Phyllis Sarabyn — Financial Planning

• Hal Shue — End of Life Planning

• Elaine McKeough — COA Panel Member

Attendees will have an opportunity to submit questions and panel members will address various ways that children can help develop a workable plan with their parents’ involvement.

The Cass County COA Front Street Crossing is located at 227 S. Front St. in Dowagiac.  Advance reservations are requested. Please call 269-445-8110.

The Cass County COA is a community organization offering programs and services for adults in all life stages.