End-of-Life Planning

A Mortuary Science Student's Perspective

As a student of mortuary science, I have a great interest in the complexities of dying, the grieving process, and the realities of making end-of-life plans. Something I’ve noticed is how reluctant or avoidant younger generations are to talk about their own mortality and end-of-life arrangements. Despite being a topic that is frequently ignored, it is extremely important for all people, regardless of age.

In today's world, end-of-life planning is typically associated with the elderly or those who are facing serious health problems. However, unexpected things can happen to anyone at any age. It is possible to reduce stress, guarantee that wishes are fulfilled, and give comfort to family and friends during trying times by accepting this inevitability and taking proactive steps.

Start the Conversation Early

It can be difficult and sometimes super awkward to start talking about a person's final wishes, but it's important. Though having these discussions early on allows for clear communication and avoids potential confusion or conflicts later, it may feel distant to those in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and even 50s to consider the possibility of incapacity or sudden, unexpected fatal accidents.

Document Your Wishes

Drafting essential documents like a will, living will, healthcare proxy, and power of attorney ensures that your desires regarding medical care, assets, and guardianship are legally recognized. Wills and living wills are examples of conventional paper documents that are legally binding when they are signed in front of witnesses and notarized. Make sure your designated individuals are aware of where to find these documents and that you keep them in a secure location. Digital copies of paper documents can be easily accessed by scanning them and safely storing them on encrypted devices or in the cloud. Make sure that only people you can trust have access to these digital versions and that they are secured with strong passwords. These documents should be regularly reviewed and updated as circumstances change.

The Role of Password Managers

A large portion of our lives are spent online. Our digital footprint is extensive and includes social media profiles, online banking, and subscription services. End-of-life planning must take into account digital assets just as much as physical assets.

Overseeing access to multiple online accounts is a challenge in digital estate planning. Password managers are crucial in this situation. These tools offer a complete solution for managing your digital legacy by securely storing and managing passwords for numerous accounts. All of your passwords are kept in one safe place. You can help ensure a seamless transfer of your digital assets by giving someone you trust access to your password manager. Without needless obstacles, this person can handle or deactivate accounts in accordance with your wishes. Just as you update your other end-of-life documents, keep your password manager information current. Regularly review and update the stored passwords and account information any time you make changes.

Financial Planning

Understanding the financial aspects of end-of-life arrangements is also important. Considering life insurance policies, designating beneficiaries, and setting aside funds for funeral expenses can provide peace of mind for both you and your family. You can name beneficiaries for a variety of financial accounts, including bank accounts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts (like IRAs and 401(k)s), and life insurance policies.

If you designate a trustworthy person as your financial power of attorney, they will also be able to handle your financial matters, including your debts, in the event of your death. This person should take care of bill payment, investment management, and financial decision making on you behalf.

Funeral and Interment Plans

The load that you place on your friends and/or family can be greatly reduced by communicating your wishes for memorial or funeral services. Stating your preferences in writing guarantees that they are honored and carried out as intended, whether that means burial, cremation, or other options (water cremation or green burial, for example). It is important to communicate openly with friends and family. Being transparent and truthful when discussing your wishes promotes understanding and helps to avert future conflicts or doubts.

As a future professional in the mortuary field, I’ve learned that end-of-life planning isn't about dwelling on morbidity; rather, it's about empowering yourself by taking control over an inevitable part of life. By taking part in these discussions and actions, we not only honor our own values and preferences but also provide clarity and peace to those we care about.

Postponing end-of-life planning can lead to needless strain and difficulties during already difficult times. Regardless of age, accepting it as a responsible part of life prepares you for whatever life may throw at you. Let's have these discussions, make wise choices, and see that our legacies are maintained how we want them to be.