End-of-life planning is a crucial step in making sure that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of when you're no longer here. By engaging in thoughtful and comprehensive end-of-life planning, you can give clarity and guidance to your loved ones in difficult times.
This article will explore the importance of end-of-life planning, what it should include, strategies for discussing it with your family, and essential documents to consider.
What is end-of-life planning?
End-of-life planning includes the process of making decisions and plans that outline your wishes for medical care, financial matters, and the distribution of assets after you pass. When creating end-of-life plans, you should consider the various aspects of your life and make plans so that there’s a smooth transition for your loved ones after you pass.
Why is end-of-life planning important?
End-of-life planning is very important for several reasons.
- It allows you to maintain control over critical decisions regarding your healthcare and finances.
- It relieves the burden on your loved ones by giving them clear instructions on what to do after your passing (especially for your children) and how to make sure your legacy aligns with your values.
- End-of-life planning helps preserve family relationships by preventing potential conflicts after you’re gone.
What should end-of-life planning include?
There are a few key considerations that you should incorporate into your end-of-life plans:
- Determine how you want to be remembered, and make plans that honour those wishes and that legacy
- Make sure your loved ones, including children, spouses, or pets, are protected by making comprehensive plans
- Evaluate your financial affairs and make sure that they are in order
- Determine who you would trust to make decisions about your property and medical care, if you were unable to make those decisions yourself
Once you’ve evaluated these considerations, you’ll be ready to begin your end-of-life planning. Overall, this process should bring peace, security, and confidence to your loved ones, knowing that your affairs are in order.
What documents are needed at the end-of-life?
The documents that you should consider for end-of-life planning include:
- Last will and testament
- Funeral instructions and burial arrangements
- Living trust
- Power of attorney for property
- Power of attorney for personal care
- Life insurance
- Housing arrangements
- Instructions for your digital assets
We’ll go into more detail about each of these important documents and aspects of end-of-life planning.
Last will and testament
Your last will and testament is one of the most important documents in your end-of-life plan. It outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and belongings, the guardianship of minor children, and your preferred funeral arrangements. With Willful, you can create a legal will online in just 20 minutes.
How to name people for the most important roles in a will
When creating your will, there are a number of important roles to consider. These roles include:
- A trusted executor for your will
- A loved one as a guardian for your children and pets
- Your beneficiaries, or those who will receive something from your will
- An ethical and responsible power of attorney
It’s important to think carefully about these roles and choose the person or people that you trust most.
For members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, there are some additional considerations when choosing people for these important estate planning roles. You can read more in our article “2SLGBTQIA+ Considerations For Estate Planning.”
Naming your spouse or partner in your will
Your marital status can impact how your estate is divided, so it’s important to make sure that your spouse or partner is explicitly mentioned in your will. This will help make sure that there are no complications after you pass.
Choosing a guardian for children
Choosing a trusted individual or couple to act as a guardian for your minor children is crucial.
Choosing a guardian for pets and creating a pet trust
If you have beloved pets, you can also name a pet caregiver who will provide for their well-being after you’re gone. You can also consider creating a pet trust to allocate money for their care.
Funeral instructions and burial arrangements
In your will you can specify your preferences for your funeral or memorial service, burial or cremation, and any other specific requests you may have. Communicate these wishes to your loved ones and consider pre arranging your funeral to ease the burden on your family.
Living trust
In addition to creating a will, you may consider creating a living trust. A living trust allows you to transfer assets and property to a trustee to manage on your behalf during your lifetime and after your passing.
Power of attorney documents
A power of attorney (POA) is a written, legal document which authorizes another person to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf. Depending on the province or territory you live in, this document may be called a personal directive, health care directive, representation agreement, or a living will.
In general, there are two main types of power of attorney documents to consider:
- Power of attorney for property
- Power of attorney for personal care
What's the difference between POAs and healthcare proxies ? →
Power of attorney for property
The person named as your power of attorney for property will be able to make decisions about your property and financial affairs, such as paying your bills, managing your bank accounts and investments, and collecting any money owed to you if you are unable to do so yourself. You should choose someone who is responsible and capable of making sound decisions on your behalf.
Power of attorney for personal care
Appoint a power of attorney for personal care to make healthcare decisions when you are unable to do so. This person can make decisions regarding your health care, housing, meals, and clothing. They will also communicate which life support measure you have outlined in your will. These are referred to as Representation Agreements in BC.
Life insurance
Consider purchasing life insurance to provide financial support to your loved ones after you pass. Assess your insurance needs based on your family’s future expenses, such as education or mortgage payments.
Housing arrangements
Plan for your future housing needs by considering options like assisted living, nursing homes, or home care services. Evaluate the costs and amenities to ensure a comfortable living arrangement as you age.
Instructions for your digital assets
Make arrangements for your digital assets, such as social media accounts, online banking, and digital files. Consider designating someone to handle these accounts or provide access instructions.
End-of-life planning checklist
To assist you in your end-of-life planning journey, click here to download a checklist summarizing the key aspects and documents to consider.
The checklist includes these important considerations for end-of-life planning:
- Last will and testament
- Funeral instructions and burial arrangements
- Living trust
- Power of attorney for property
- Power of attorney for personal care
- Life insurance
- Housing arrangements
- Instructions for your digital assets
How can I talk to my family about end-of-life planning?
Discussing end-of-life planning with your family can be challenging but it’s a crucial part of the process. Here are some strategies to help with these conversations:
Choose the right time and place: Find a comfortable and relaxed environment where everyone can focus and have open conversation without distractions.
Be sensitive and empathetic: Approach the conversation with sensitivity, understanding that it may be difficult for your loved ones. Empathize with their emotions and concerns.
Create an open and honest atmosphere: Encourage open communication by expressing your own thoughts and concerns. Create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their views.
Use clear and simple language: Avoid jargon or complicated terms. Use plain language to make sure that everyone understands the discussions and decisions being made.
Listen and validate: Actively listen to your family members' thoughts and concerns. Validate their emotions and opinions, even if they differ from your own.
Provide information and resources: Share educational materials, articles, or professional guidance to help your family members gain a better understanding of end-of-life planning.
End-of-life planning is the best way to make sure that your wishes are honoured, your loved ones are supported, and potential conflicts among your loved ones are minimized. By engaging in open conversations with your family, completing essential documents, and considering various aspects of your life, you can create a comprehensive end-of-life plan that provides peace of mind to all.
Get started on your end-of-life planning by creating your legal online will today. It only takes 20 minutes and it’s free to get started.
