Planning for the end of life may not be easy, but having a clear plan in place can bring peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. Here are 11 reasons why creating an end-of-life plan in advance is so important.
1. Ensure your wishes are honoured
Losing a loved one is difficult, but knowing their wishes and being able to fulfil them provides great solace. When you discuss your end-of-life preferences in advance, your family can confidently carry them out, knowing they are honouring your choices.
2. Save your family time and money
A well-documented end-of-life plan can help your family avoid costly legal fees and time-consuming administrative work. Without a plan, relatives may have to take extended time off work to sort through legal and financial matters.
3. Ensure your belongings go to the right people
Clearly outlining who will inherit your personal items can bring comfort to both the executor of your estate and the beneficiaries. This eliminates uncertainty and ensures that meaningful possessions are given to those you intended.
4. Prepare your partner for daily tasks
If your spouse or partner outlives you, they may struggle with everyday household tasks they were not accustomed to handling. Learning how to operate essential household appliances, manage the garden or handle finances in advance can prevent unnecessary stress and heartache.
5. Manage your digital legacy
By planning ahead, you can ensure your social media and digital accounts are handled according to your wishes. Visit the Digital Legacy Association for guidance on managing online accounts after death.
6. Receive the end-of-life care you want
Discussing and documenting your preferences for medical care ensures that you are treated according to your wishes. This includes speaking with your family and healthcare providers and formalising your choices in writing.
7. Provide peace of mind for yourself and loved ones
Planning ahead can ease anxiety for both you and your family. Knowing that everything is in place allows you to focus on spending quality time together rather than worrying about future uncertainties.
8. Prevent your belongings from being discarded
Without a clear plan for your possessions, they may end up discarded or sent to a landfill. Specifying what should be done with your belongings ensures they are handled with care and respect.
9. Make the grieving process easier
When administrative and financial matters are organised in advance, your family can focus on grieving and healing rather than struggling with paperwork and legal complexities.
10. Ensure important accounts can be accessed
If no one knows your passwords, your loved ones may struggle to access crucial accounts, including:
Bank accounts
Main computer or laptop
Phone or tablet
Online subscriptions and services.
Keeping a secure record of login details or using a password manager can prevent these issues.
11. Maintain control over your daily comforts
In your final days, ensuring that others know your preferences can impact your comfort. Without guidance, you may not receive the care you desire, such as:
The food you like
Your choice of music or TV preferences
Clothing that reflects your personality.
By documenting these details, you can help ensure a more dignified and personalised experience.