Help with Parent's Stash

[RNwastash]

Hi All,
My parents are 80 years old, and they just entrusted me with managing their finances.  Anyway, my mom had $100k in a 6 month
CD earning 0.25%!! Holy Christ!!  Well anyway it just matured and now I need help in deciding where to put it.  They have a sweet pension/ SS/ monthly payout of $5k a month so basically, they really don't need the money at this point.  I would like to keep it liquid just in case they need it to help them move into an assisted living situation.  I would appreciate any advice.  Thanks.

[MDM]

You could talk with them and pick one of these: https://investor.vanguard.com/mutual-funds/lifestrategy/#/

Making sure they are ok should be your first priority.  You have to do this.

After that is established - have they shared their intent for these funds after they pass?  In other words, if you are sure they will not run out of money you could consider investing more in line with the risk tolerance of the intended inheritors.

It's a bit of a balancing act, but if you can pass scrutiny on making sure they are ok then you could potentially invest more aggressively.  This is one situation where it might be appropriate to have a 3rd party manager, to avoid "the appearance of impropriety" in the dealings with your folks.

[Mother Fussbudget]

After that is established - have they shared their intent for these funds after they pass?  In other words, if you are sure they will not run out of money you could consider investing more in line with the risk tolerance of the intended inheritors

+1 *if* you make sure this meets with your parents wishes.  And share your plan with them.

You should work with your parents, and make sure ALL their financial picture is understood.  Something like this might help:
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/8-steps-for-managing-parents-finances-1.aspx

All situations are different.  I am wary of anyone that gives a "DO X, Y & Z" answer.... so you can guess what's next :-)
DO consult your parents current financial advisor, and find out what they think.
DO float your investment ideas to your parents & their financial advisors.
DO consider power of attorney for yourself.
DO ensure they have an up-to-date will.
DO get documentation for advance health directives (i.e. do they have a 'DNR' [do not resuscitate]? etc.)