My parents are getting older, but they've done a lot to prepare. Being honest and upfront has been the most helpful. - Business Insider

The author's parents have taken helpful steps to prepare for their future.

On a recent Tuesday, I received three text messages in a row: two from my daughter and one from my dad. For many of us, this is our everyday — sandwiched between our parents and our kids, and suddenly balancing both. Our parents are navigating big life transitions. So are our kids. In this sandwich generation, with little time and a lot on our plates, here are a few things our parents have done that have really helped our family navigate this tricky time of life. We're clear on our parents' wishesIt goes without saying: this is new territory for everyone. Safety, stability, and continuous modifications have been themes my husband and I have prioritized as our parents enter this next chapter. Both sets of our parents have set up and periodically update wills and trusts; they have their important documents in order. Having lawyer contacts and power of attorney has helped my husband and me, and our siblings know whom to contact in an emergency and which specific procedures to follow.