This is a common subject and common scenario with seniors. Seniors are certainly capable of handling their health insurance matters on their own. It’s ideal for you to know what’s going on, yet, when adult children want to be more involved and offer their help, I encourage people to welcome the help. You and your adult child determine the level of involvement, yet their input and knowledge can be invaluable. Their involvement does not give them decision-making authority – you remain the decision-maker. That level of authority is achieved via legal power of attorney; this is typically only in rare instances.
Perhaps about 10% of our clients have their adult child as the point of contact and we gladly welcome them in the conversations. By and large these are very healthy relationships where the adult child respects the parent’s rights, preferences and opinions. Adult children bring an added perspective as well as further supporting the best interest of the beneficiary, as we do. Their knowledge of your health insurance is invaluable if one’s health condition changes. We ensure adult children know me as the parents’ Agent and have our contact information.
So, yes, if your children are willing to get involved, do welcome them. You’ve done a great job raising them and they can now provide you additional support.
