Research shows that most Americans feel decisions about medical care, specifically life-prolonging measures and end-of-life care, should be made by themselves or their family. Unfortunately, many of those same people have not taken the steps necessary to ensure their desires will be honored when the time comes.

Health Proxies, Living Wills, Estate Planning, Assisted Living, Nursing Home Care, and Funeral Arrangements are some of the things that help the family of an aging or ill individual deal with the many decisions that have to be made. As part of advance planning, these documents and decisions help families, medical personnel, and others avoid confusion, disagreements, and involved legal complications. Be sure to download some of our free forms and guide sheets from our resources page.

Often overlooked are the spiritual and religious needs of someone coming to the end of a rich and beautiful life. A 2001 poll found 95% of those surveyed believed in God; 68% indicated they were members of a religious institution. More than half of those surveyed said that religion was "very important" in their lives. Research also shows that spiritual practices have a positive effect by providing social support thereby enhancing an individual's ability to cope while relieving stress.

Though we prefer not to think about it, death is an event in our lives that cannot be ignored. Dealing with the death of a loved one is a stressful time. Grief makes decision-making even more stressful. We recommend planning for all aspects of this process in advance. Families should discuss their wishes concerning illness, injury, aging, and death.

Before you are faced with the death of a loved one, take the steps necessary to ensure that the stress of grieving is not compounded with the stress of making decisions that could have been made in advance. Some of the things you should discuss and be prepared for are:

  What kind of arrangements should be made? 
  Who will be responsible for funeral expenses for billing purposes? 
  Who will notify relatives and friends?
  Where is all the necessary information to complete the death certificate?

To download a free funeral checklist, go to our resources page.

 For more information, we offer guides, booklets, and links to help facilitate this discussion.

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