Our story on planning for long-term care, the last in the series, will run until Aug. 24. In it, we'll profile three area people in various states of planning and talk about what worked for them, what didn't. We'll also be giving tips from experts — CPA's, elder law attorneys and advocates for area seniors.

The thrust of the advice seems to be: Get the best quality you can afford. Ask a lot of questions. Make sure your attorney understands the public-benefits system — and even has a copy of the 400-page addendum Medicaid puts out on a regular basis.

The main thing, they say, is to really consult someone who works specifically in the field. Not just talk to your neighbor or your cousin in North Carolina (regulations can differ from state to state).

My inlaws (age: late 70s and 80) are in the process of selling their house and possibly moving to Roanoke. According to the experts, we should be having "the talk" soon. That is to say: Adult children of parents that age should be asking: Do you have long-term care insurance? What happens when one of you has a stroke or is diagnosed with dementia? Are your documents — including a medical power of attorney and a will or revocable trust — in order?

— Beth