First, it is important to keep in mind that estate planning for elderly clients is sometimes crisis driven. For example, it is common that issues such as an imminent admission to a nursing home, serious illness, or an impending medical procedure might be in play. While this may not affect the goals the clients hope to achieve, if time is short, it may very well affect how realistic it will be to accomplish certain goals.
Secondly, the ease with which a client's goals might be determined may be impacted by the emotional fall-out from the issues stated above.
Consequently, it is vital to proceed carefully and with patience to be sure that the elder client's best interest, holistic needs and objectives are met.
