| What are the basics in planning for death and dying? |
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ARTICLE SUMMARY Controlling our lives and the lives of our loved one is at the heart of human desires. When control is taken away from us, when we discover that our loved one is facing death and dying, then we tend to despair. How can you regain some control? What planning should be done for those facing death and dying?
You will then be able to focus your time with your loved one during his or her last days, be present with them, and help them be better prepared to face their own death and dying. What are the basics in planning for death and dying? FULL ARTICLE Controlling our lives and the lives of our loved one is at the heart of human desires. We desire control, and the peace and security control gives us. When control is taken away from us, when we discover that our loved one is facing death and dying, then we tend to despair. How can you regain some control? Planning basics allow us to gain control back in our lives and the lives of our dying loved one. Key components include financial planning, making a list of his or her assets (what your loved one owns) and liabilities (what your loved one owes – debts). Discuss this with your dying loved one. Bills need to be paid, and other matters handled – by discussing this with your loved one you may find this will free them up from the burden of dealing with these lesser issues of death and dying. Legal matters include medical wills – you should find out how your loved one wants to be cared for. What treatments do they desire to have – what treatments do they not desire? You should contact a trusted attorney as soon as possible. If you do not have one, talk to trusted friends and family about who they recommend. In addition to the medical will, your loved one should also have a last will and testament to document their desires as to how possessions should be handled when they are gone. For those facing death and dying, the handling of these matters can free them from pain, and make the trials ahead much easier. Although difficult, another topic is the funeral arraignments. Does your loved one have a special place where he or she wants to be buried? Would they prefer to be cremated? Contact a funeral home for assistance on this matter. Again, by clearing up these lesser important matters, you will then be able to focus your time with your loved one during his or her last days, be present with them, and help them face their own death and dying. |