Senior care experts are urging families to discuss care arrangements for ageing parents well before a health emergency forces the issue. According to Tatyana Zlotsky, chief executive of the New York-based referral service A Place for Mom, early conversations lead to better outcomes and reduce family conflict, yet most families delay them until a crisis strikes. The message matters because rushed, last-minute decisions can leave families with fewer options and greater stress.

Zlotsky reported that 77% of the families she works with say they wish they had acted sooner. Planning ahead, she argues, gives relatives more time to compare care options, understand the associated costs and respect the wishes of the older person, rather than being forced into hasty choices. The article also points to accompanying guidance on the subtle warning signs that an ageing parent may need additional support.