End of life planning is a critical task that too often gets pushed to the back burner. However, it’s important to take the time to make your wishes known so that your loved ones can honour them after you’re gone. This article will discuss why end of life planning is important and how you can go about preparing for it.

1. What happens if you don’t have an end-of-life plan

Without an end-of-life plan, your loved ones are left to make decisions about death and end-of-life care on their own. This can often be a traumatic experience during an already difficult time. Taking the time to create an end of life plan ahead of time ensures that those decisions are made based on your wishes and not those of another person.

2. How to make a solid end-of-life plan

The process is simple and straightforward, though understandably daunting. It begins with a basic understanding of what end-of-life planning actually entails—arranging various necessary measures such as how your possessions will be distributed upon death. From there, you can set about drafting your Will which. Be sure to think about end-of-life decisions such as burial arrangements, guardianship of minor or dependent children or elderly individuals, the appointment of an executor of one’s estate.

3. The benefits of having a solid end-of-life plan

Everyone involved in the end-of-life process will have a clear understanding of funeral arrangements, medical decisions, and financial matters if end-of-life plans are set in advance. End-of-life plans also ensure that your wishes are properly honoured after death occurs by providing clear guidelines. Click here to read our blog post on why planning your funeral at 35 is important.

4. Why it’s important to update your plan regularly

It is particularly important to ensure you update this end-of-life planning on a regular basis, as the needs and wishes of people tend to evolve with time. By updating, you can guarantee that all processes will be conducted according to your current desires and prevent any potential confusion or misinterpretation by your loved ones when dealing with matters such as estate planning or charitable giving. 

5. How to talk about your end-of-life plan with your loved ones

Discussing end of life plans with your family and friends is important in order to ensure they understand what needs to happen should something untoward occur. It could help provide peace of mind knowing that your end-of-life wishes had been communicated and respected. Keep in mind that it doesn’t need to be an overly emotional conversation, instead focus on understanding each other and hearing everyone’s thoughts.

6. Questions to ask yourself when creating your plan

It’s crucial to think through questions such as who will manage your financial and medical affairs? Who should be informed about any funeral arrangements? What should be done with personal belongings? Having an end of life plan finalised allows you to keep  the responsibility for decisions that must otherwise be made by your friends and family.

Learn more on how to creat an end of life plan here.