“I intend to live forever, or die trying.” ~ Groucho Marx

 

Most of us have trouble relinquishing control, yet many of us avoid, postpone or ignore taking steps to ensure that we have a say in what happens at the end of life. Neglecting estate planning and not expressing our wishes about end-of-life care gives these critical decisions over to legal protocols. So unless you want the state making decisions on your behalf, it’s important to take the time to address them while you’re still able. Your children and their children will thank you.

 

Each estate is unique and each individual should take the time to weigh the outcomes that result from these decisions.

 

Estate planning may not be a simple task, but by using a qualified estate planning attorney, the process can be manageable. At the initial consultation, your attorney will give you information and questions to consider that are specific to your situation. Are you part of a blended family? Are you caring for children or grandchildren with disabilities?

 

An attorney can point out options and advise you of possible outcomes for all of these situations, allowing you to make the most informed decisions possible.

 

• Last will and testament - This is where you name an executor, a guardian for surviving dependents and your pets, and who will receive your earthly possessions.

• Revocable living trust - A living trust has tax benefits and will allow your beneficiaries to avoid probate. It will include your will.

• Digital assets and legacy - Forgetting this one may cause frustration for those left behind.

• Life insurance - There are a number of options should you decide to invest in this.

If you have recently moved to or from another state, laws affecting inheritance may be different. Tax laws also change frequently, so your estate plan may require updating over time. It can be a relief to know that you’re free to update the plan as circumstances change.

 

• Durable powers of attorney - For those you designate to make financial and medical decisions should you be incapacitated.

• Living will - A legally binding document that indicates your preferences for medical care at the end-of-life.

• Do not resuscitate order - Often referred to as a DNR, this will prevent caregivers from performing CPR if there is no chance of long-term recovery.

• Physician orders for life-sustaining treatment - The POLST form is for those that are seriously ill or frail. It directs your health care providers to follow your wishes as a medical order.

• Housing at the end-of-life - It’s important to have a plan in place before it’s needed. Hospice and palliative care providers also provide comfort and support for loved ones.

"Amazing tradition. They throw a great party for you on the one day they know you can’t come." ~ Jeff Goldblum

 

Your friends and family will appreciate knowing if you want a gathering, a traditional ritual, or a crazy celebration after you die. What happens to your physical body after death is also something you can plan for.

 

• Celebration of life

• Traditional funeral or memorial service

• Disposition of final remains - Burial or cremation usually come to mind first, but you may also want to consider donating the body for medical education or scientific research. If it’s important to you to minimize your carbon footprint, there are some increasingly popular options: Aquamation is the process of breaking down the body in liquid, and California recently became the fifth state to legalize human composting.

It is so important to have a frank discussion with your loved ones about the end of life. It’s never too soon; a clear plan may be one of the greatest gifts you can bestow.