Senior Sunrise

The topic of planning for one’s funeral is probably not on the top ten list of most people, but actually it should be.  Over the last 25 years I have assisted at more than 50 funerals, and of all of those I can only recall one person who had pre-planned their funeral.  My great aunt, who to our entire family was known to be ” ahead of her time”, had everything planned out  and paid for.  She had set aside her burial clothes, and included the money for the reception after her passing.  She had taken care of every detail: the cemetery, the plot, the religious service, the wake, the funeral, the reception, and lastly how her belongings, and home were to be distributed and taken care of.

Because of her example and forethought, not a few of us have done the same. I took the time two years ago to make an appointment with the morturary that my family has dealt with for over thirty years.  I scheduled an appointment, and took care of the details of my own funeral.  I was able to start a payment plan that will soon be complete, and I feel that I have saved my family more than a few troubles in taking care of me when I die.  Just knowing that I am going to leave, and have things in order for them makes me feel happy.  They will not have the monetary burden, nor the stressful job of wondering what to do.  I encourage everyone to think about doing some funeral planning, for youself, and if possible for those that you love. 

At a certain point in our lives reality hits, and we realize that time is passing quickly.  We look around us, and not only do we see our sons, daughters, and grandchildren getting older, but we see ourselves aging. 

There are so many questions that follow that stunning reality.  Are my things in order?  Do I have a will?  Should I make a Living Trust instead of a will?  How do I decide who gets what, or to whom do I leave property and/or money   These questions and more can make us few stressed out and anxious.  To be able to decide what to do before it’s “too late” every senior should take the time, with someone they trust at their side, and make a decision about either making a Living Trust or Will.  

The idea of having to do this is sometimes haunting, but the completion of such brings peace and calm.  The positive outcome, of course will be knowing that your personal things, & more have been accounted for not only in your lifetime, but in your death as well.  Your family will know that what you have decided is to be fulfilled, and they also will be grateful that your wishes have been followed.