Most families wait until a fall, stroke, or sudden diagnosis forces a scramble. We open up about how adult children can help parents plan early, keep control where it belongs, and avoid the most expensive and stressful mistakes—from lost capacity to long-term care surprises. We start with the heart of the matter: capacity. Once a parent can’t sign, choices narrow and families face court, delays, and mounting costs. We lay out conversation starters that honor dignity and independence, then tr...