This is a sad, uncomfortable subject, but needs to be discussed. We never know what tomorrow will bring us. In January 2020, I personally was in the hospital for 8 days with Delta COVID. I was on oxygen and doctors told me I might have to go on a ventilator. My son who lives in New York City was my POA. Just months prior to January, I had mailed him my updated will and other legal information. This was all before the vaccines were available. I practice what I preach. I had all my legal “life documents” in order. So many people don’t want to discuss it or they say their attorney or accountant has my information. In many cases, the immediate family has no idea of a loved ones wishes.
Here are some ideas for planning:
- Write down your wishes for your funeral. Do you want to be cremated or buried in a casket? Do you want to be placed in a simple urn or in a fancy or plain casket? Do you want a ceremony or a life celebration? Where do you want to be buried? What type of service do you want? Who do want to conduct the service? Where do you want to be buried?
- Discuss the wishes with your family. They will say, let’s not talk about it, but you must insist. When you plan everything and something should happen, your family will be relieved that you planned it. I have worked with so many survivors of passed loved ones who are clueless on their wants and wishes. Not only regarding the funeral but also household items.
- Be informed about the choices today. There are many options that can work for your beliefs and budget.
- Document and decide on your final wishes, then put it in writing. Put these into your “life document” binder that Complete Relocation Solutions creates. Also share it with your family.
- Discuss with several funeral homes, prices and options that are available.
- Make arrangements for this pre-planning process. Find out if you can put deposits down or if you have to pay in full. Or do you really need to pay in full? What happens if you live in one state and several years later, move to another state? Then does this pre-planning apply to other funeral homes?
- How will you pay for your funeral arrangements? With an insurance policy? Retirement funds? Cash out of pocket? Monetary planning is critical.
- In addition, will you need to seek Medicaid assistance? Do you have it now? How do you prepare for this? Do you need to consult an Elder Law Attorney?
- Find out what government benefits you are entitled to receive. Do you have military benefits? (When you organize your “life documents” with Complete Relocation Solutions, military discharge papers are included, along with other personal information needed.)
- Which funeral home will you visit to investigate the above questions? Do your research and visit several funeral homes. Do you have a religious preference? Do some funeral homes provide special needs that fit your requests?