Let’s be real—life is busy. Between work, kids, aging parents, and trying to carve out five minutes for yourself, estate planning is probably at the bottom of your to-do list. But here’s the thing: waiting until you have “more time” could leave your family unprotected when they need it most.

The good news? You don’t need hours to secure your family’s future. A few small, smart steps today can make all the difference.

Discussing elder law with your parents can feel daunting. You worry about stepping on toes, sparking conflict, or making an already sensitive topic even more difficult. But as uncomfortable as these conversations might be, they’re essential for protecting your family’s future and ensuring your parents’ wishes are honored. With the right approach, you can navigate these discussions respectfully and productively.

Here are six strategies to help you talk to your parents about elder law without conflict: