Aging Americans Are Focused On Legacy, But Most Still Lack A Will

As Americans grow older, their thoughts increasingly turn to the legacies theyll leave behind — and, for many, that means more than just money or possessions.

A new survey of 2,000 U.S. adults reveals that while 54% want to leave a positive mark on the world, an overwhelming 80% are more concerned with the impression they leave on loved ones. The survey, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Ethos, explored how aging shapes priorities and outlook.

Eight in 10 respondents (82%) reported a noticeable shift in mindset as theyve aged, including a stronger appreciation for the little things (61%), a greater tendency to savor good moments (53%), and a more deliberate effort to make every day count (45%).

One participant reflected, “Times the real currency,” while another said theyve stopped sweating the small stuff. Nearly half (49%) said they now appreciate the beauty in life more, and many expressed a growing desire to remain connected with family and friends.

In fact, 50% of respondents said staying close to loved ones is their top goal as they age. Other common aspirations include watching their family grow (42%), leaving sentimental items behind (36%), and ensuring family members are financially secure (35%).

More than half of respondents (58%) said theyve received a meaningful heirloom from a loved one — such as a vintage photo album, a handmade quilt, or a wartime watch — and 59% plan to continue that tradition. That number rises to 68% among parents, compared to 45% of non-parents.

Despite this desire to prepare their families, only 45% of adults said theyve spoken about their final wishes with loved ones. The most common reasons for avoiding the conversation include not wanting to think about it (28%), it not coming up naturally (25%), or believing its too soon (25%). Parents were more likely to have had the conversation (56%) than non-parents (41%).

“Just 45% of adults revealed theyve spoken about their last wishes with a loved one,” said Nichole Myers, chief underwriter from Ethos. “Parents particularly expressed a bit more worry. But whether or not you are a parent, its a good time to start thinking about your ties to the people around you and the legacy you want to leave for them.”

Natural aging prompted 44% to initiate these conversations, while 33% were prompted by the process of preparing a will. Still, nearly two-thirds (65%) of respondents do not currently have a working will — including about half of those aged 65 and older. While parents are more likely to have one (41% vs. 25%), many said a lack of education on how to begin is holding them back. In fact, 58% of those without a will said theyd be more likely to start one if they had a clearer understanding of the process.

“The average American mistakenly thinks it takes about eight weeks to wrap up the legalities after a loved one passes away — and that is a significant underestimate,” said Myers. “Proper education for how to handle end-of-life proceedings is important. So many are under the impression that its a quick process, and the reality is that it can take up to 15 months. To help keep things moving smoothly, people should feel comfortable discussing their wishes with family and friends. Keeping everything organized in an estate plan or a will can help.”

While legal documents are essential, many respondents also hope to leave behind less tangible legacies — such as strong values, lasting memories, and emotional connections. Among the most common items people plan to pass on: money, jewelry, heirloom furniture, artwork, photos, sports card collections, and even sword collections.