November 2025 Newsletter

The Thanksgiving season often means family get-togethers, full of laughter, shared meals, and cherished traditions. But for many adult children, these reunions can also bring unexpected realizations — that a parent or older relative may be showing signs of slowing down, physically or cognitively.

It can be unsettling to notice changes you hadn’t seen before: a parent struggling to keep up in the kitchen, repeating stories, or seeming more withdrawn or confused. These moments can stir concern, sadness, or uncertainty about what to do next.

If you find yourself in this situation, take a gentle, proactive approach:

• Observe quietly: Make note of changes without jumping to conclusions. Sometimes fatigue or stress can mimic decline.
• Start the conversation: Choose a calm, private moment to express your observations with care and respect. Use “I” statements — for example, “I’ve noticed you seem more tired lately.”
• Gather information: Check if they’ve had recent medical appointments, and offer to help with scheduling or transportation if needed.
• Plan ahead: If concerns persist, it may be time to discuss support options — from in-home help to long-term care planning.

Thanksgiving reminds us of the importance of family, gratitude, and connection. By approaching these realizations with compassion and readiness, we can help ensure our loved ones remain safe, supported, and surrounded by care throughout the holidays and beyond.

Create or Protect Your Family Traditions with an Estate Plan

Americans today are somewhat split on what defines a traditional Thanksgiving. Most of us celebrate the holiday, but our traditions and activities vary widely. Still, as new traditions replace old ones, the core of Thanksgiving—connection, gratitude, and shared experience—remains the same. Estate plans can evolve in much the same way, reflecting new realities and a renewed spirit of giving. Estate plans are not only about passing down money and possessions. Read more to discover how estate plans are also a way to preserve traditions, share values, and keep families connected for generations to come.

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Make Sure That Your Estate Plan Is More Than Kindling

You cannot stop fall from turning into winter. The best you can do is ensure that you are prepared for colder weather to come. An estate plan can be thought of in the same way. While it will not stave off what is inevitably coming and what we may prefer to avoid altogether, it can provide warmth to those who are left gathered around the hearth. Read more to learn some practical pointers to keep your estate plan from burning out and to ensure that it is ready to work when you need it most.

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Ask Your Loved Ones What They Want

Estate planning can be thought of as gift-giving on a bigger, more enduring scale. But unlike a holiday gift that can be returned or exchanged, the “gifts” of an estate plan carry emotional weight and often touch on sensitive family dynamics that demand more in-depth conversation. Having “the Talk” before “the Transfer” is critical to reducing conflict and uncertainty. Read more to learn some key findings that highlight why these conversations matter.

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Note from Susana:  Here is Why Estate Planning Is a Gift to Your Family

Dear Reader:

As we approach the holidays we think of family, family well-being and what the future may hold for each loved one. It is a time of happiness and celebration of new additions to our family by birth or marriage; and a time of sadness for those of us who are not so well or suffering from old age issues; or who are caregivers dealing with issues of a loved one’s decline that are not going to go away. In the face of these possible scenarios, we can give loved ones the best gift of all.

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