What kind of planning do I need to do for retirement?

[RubySparks]

DH and I have both made wills (leaving to DC who are mid teens) and have a mix of personal penions and some savings.

He is 10 years older than me so will retire in about 5 years but suffers from a progressive illness making long term healthy retirement unlikely.

We are also dealing with elderly relatives and sorting out clearing a house for one of them so it can be let or sold (to pay care home fees).

Should we also have some kind of 'living will'? Should we give money to kids now for uni or house deposits (it won't be much!). Should we think about downsizing as soon as youngest goes to uni so more money for them?

Any thoughts gratefully received!

TBH you sound like an initial meeting with a proper financial planner would be worth it. You have a few issues (paying care home fees, ensuring value is taken from retirement capital). I would speak to a Chartered IFA firm (look on unbiased) and see someone locally, they will have advisers that can give you some sound advice.

OK thanks both! Just didn't know what to do next, I want a balance between living now, providing for teens and taking care of old folks!

That's a common theme TBH and one that a good IFA can help you navigate.