Planning For The Future

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE - Plan and pre-pay your funeral - TODAY! at today's prices

An ‘end-of-life’ plan sounds dramatic or applicable only if, ‘I’ get ill, in the future or if I need  nursing or medical care?

True, end-of-life plans do exist for that purpose but this is a personal plan - to let others, those we love and care about, know our wishes for the day that our own sad event occurs – an event that is inevitable – it WILL happen, one day.

Putting off this task is quite easy and could be perceived as a good, ‘Reason to Stay Alive’?

In the unlikely event of an accident or sudden illness, we may lose control of our own destiny and once an end-of-life plan is put into place, life can continue - almost without further thought.

So what should I be considering?

·      Have I made a will? Who will act as my Executor/s?

·      What is a ‘Power of Attorney’ arrangement?

·      Will I need a P-o-A if my memory goes?

·      Have I made a statement of or, recorded my funeral wishes or arrangements and have I told anyone?

·      Where can they be found?

·      Have I considered any form of organ donation or objection to?

·      What if I end up on life-support or brain damaged?

·      What of my future care or support in the event of illness, terminal illness, dementia, Parkinson’s Disease or similar?

There are numerous forms online that address this issue; some are brief and concise, some are lengthy and amount to 'Estate Planning.' Some are formal but to have something in place despite its simplicity, is fundamental.

Rarely binding legally, our personal wishes written in back and white will give clear intent to those concerned of our desires and thoughts. This can eliminate discussion and distress as well as debates and argument.

More formal documents that are legally binding can be pursued and would be advisable for the purpose of Estate Execution, Inheritance and Probate.

Completing the routine data such as Name and Current Address as well as, “Is There A Will and Where Is It Located” are relatively easy to address and the ‘thought provokes thought’ process will certainly expand the number of details you can add or write down.

Examples such as:

• Date and place of birth (required by the Registrar within FIVE days of the death)
• Next of kin details
• Executor details
• GP and medical centre details
• Who to notify preceding/following the death

This is a starting point, which should lead to the following questions:

• Does the deceased have a pre-paid funeral plan?
• Who is it with and what are the details contained in it?
• Does anyone know if solicitors are involved and who are they?
• Is the deceased for Burial or Cremation?
• Has the disposal of Ashes/Cremated Remains been discussed?
• Is there to be a service in church or a Celebration of Life ceremony?
• Eco-friendly (Natural Burial Ground), churchyard or municipal cemetery?
• New grave or an existing plot?
• Is there a Memorial stone in place and has the grave been recently attended?
• What type of coffin is required?
• Notices in the local or national newspapers?
• Arrangements for refreshments after the service?

There are many other questions that could be included and your local funeral director will be happy to help discuss your options in advance, without obligation.

One form that addresses these issues can be found on this website but your options and choices are many and meeting personally with your local funeral director will assist you to complete this responsible action and move on with your life knowing that you and your loved ones have, ‘peace of mind.’

SEE ALSO OUR ARTICLE ON WHY YOU SHOULD MAKE A WILL AND WHY IT IS NEVER TOO SOON TO MAKE A WILL