Cigarettes and Vacations or 401K?

Dear Mongoose,
My parents are past retirement age and they've worked hard all their lives. They don't have a dime saved up after all these years. They were always into lottery tickets, vacations, and they both smoke cigarettes. Now, Mom's health is not doing well and they're facing some difficult financial decisions, are broke, but are not at all worried...apparently, they're making plans for another vacation, that is, if Mom's health holds up. Should my sister and I step in or stay quiet? You can't pay bills with lotto tickets and cigarette butts.

Dear Inheritance Tax,

Those that fail to plan plan to fail. No one wants to get old, get sick or die but just as they say, like taxes; it's certain.  There is a bright side, the banker has yet to figure out how to repo memories. I would assume your parents have this in mind and feel as though they should make the best of their time left together.  Other than making sure you're not a co-signer on any of their loans there's not a whole lot you can do. Sign 'em up for Obamacare or Medicare, wish them safe travels, a good smoke, and hope for a postcard. They've paid their dues and the reality is we will all be paying for their lack of planning.

We'll See Ya, 
Mongoose