<prompt> Human: They are restauranteurs, but havent really been all that successful so far. Theyre so focused on the big payday that they really make poor long-term decisions. It doesnt help that my step-dad doesnt believe in stock investing because hes a serial entrepreneur and thinks he needs to earn everything with his hands. I want to start an IRA for my mom, because I know theres a significant chance that they will end up in bad shape needing my support later. Is there a way I can start one for her? I might be able to convince her to contribute some to it if I can make it very easy for her and manage it myself, probably at vanguard.Tips? Ideas? Can I have everything mailed to me and just give her some stuff to sign?  <response>: I wouldnt worry about getting her an IRA, she wont follow through on it. My suggestion would be to invest yourself, get yourself in a financial situation where when the time comes you can take her in and look after her. At 55 shes unlikely to changer her ways unless she REALLY wants to. 