Discuss your own plans

Another indirect strategy is to talk about your own insurance needs or plans. Once the discussion is under way, you can steer the subject in the direction of your parents' insurance needs.

Ask for their advice

Parents are used to giving advice to their kids, not getting it from them. Start by asking them what they think you should do about a particular insurance issue. For example, you might ask if they think you should increase your life insurance now that a grandchild has been born, or drop the collision coverage on your 10-year-old car. From there, you can divert the topic to their own insurance needs.

Ask a simple question

Another "lead-in" approach involves asking a seemingly innocent question, such as: "Who is your insurance agent?" or "do you keep your insurance policies in case of an emergency?" Whatever answer your parents give will be an opening for you to ask other questions that are on your mind.

Bring in the big guns

Perhaps not during the first discussion, but at some point in time you may want to make an appointment with your (or your parents') insurance agent for an evaluation of your parents' insurance situation and needs.

Be patient

Realize that this process takes time. Your parents may need to think things over, and it may take several discussion sessions to work out all the details.

Follow your parents' wishes

Finally, remember that just because your parents have agreed to let you help doesn't mean that you can take charge and do things your own way. You should act only when and how your parents want you to.