If You're Afraid Your Parents Are Not Taking Their Medication…

People living with a chronic illness often make the mistake of stopping medication for that illness when they feel better, only to have serious or dangerous symptoms reappear, says Barbara Supanich, M.D., medical director for palliative medicine at Holy Cross Hospital, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Make sure the doctor explains to your parents that they have to keep taking the pills to control the disease, perhaps for the rest of their lives.
 
Pain drugs are a special challenge. People often don't take them because they fear becoming addicted or they don't realize that most side effects, such as drowsiness, dissipate in a few days, says Joan Panke, the palliative-care coordinator at George Washington University Hospital, in Washington, D.C. (If the side effects don't go away, consult the doctor about switching medicines.) Let your parents know that controlling pain can help them maintain a good quality of life and stay active, happy, and healthy.
 
 

If You Think They Are Making Poor Financial Decisions…

Injecting yourself into your parents' financial affairs is a touchy subject because it can undermine their sense of control, says Richards. Ask them if they would consider allowing a friend or a relative to help pay bills. See if they'll consider a joint checking account or a two-signature account, which would still let them write the checks but require your approval for any large amounts.
 
Fraud, scams, and identity theft are also threats. "Seniors are seen as prey. They have assets, but they are less likely to blow the whistle or report a crime, because they are often embarrassed," says Jean Setzfand, director of financial security for AARP. Report identity theft not just to the local police but also to the Federal Trade Commission (call 877-438-4338). If you suspect a scam, call the credit-card company to challenge large charges, suspicious items from companies you've never heard of, and items your parents clearly don't need.