The 40/70 Rule

Have you heard of the 40/70 Rule?  It’s the idea that when adult children are around 40 and their parents are around 70, it’s time to start talking about the future.

There are a lot of things to discuss: Near-term and long-term living preferences, estate and financial planning, healthcare wishes and end-of-life decisions

These topics are notoriously hard to bring up.  But having these important conversations before a crisis means decisions can be made calmly-not in the middle of stress or uncertainty.  Having this talk early means wishes are clearly understood, independence is preserved longer and families avoid rushed emotional decisions.

As a real estate agent who specializes in seniors, I’ve worked with families who have had these conversations-and those who haven’t.  The difference is often clear: when expectations and wishes are discussed early, these transitions tend to feel more manageable, thoughtful, and less overwhelming for everyone involved.

If you’re around this stage of life-or know these conversations still need to happen-consider this your gentle reminder to start.