Most people do not like to think or talk about death, especially their own. But death is a function everyone will endure at once, and it is easy to prepare for. One of the ways you can prepare is to pre-plan your funeral. Not only will you get the type of service you want, but you will also make the process so much easier for your family and friends. 

1. Talk To Your Family About What You Want

Talking to your family about death is not always easy. Some people do not want to imagine life without you, but you never know when this will happen.

During the conversation, express your end-of-life decisions. Create a safe place for your documents, and make sure your family knows where they are. Appoint someone to be in charge of your funeral and your estate.

If you are married, this may be a spouse, but depending on your age, you may choose an adult child. Ask a sibling or best friend if you have neither of these.

2. Create A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care

Once your family member agrees to handle your end-of-life decisions, make the agreement legal by creating a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care (DPAHC). This document outlines the types of medical treatments you do and do not want. 

Your DPAHC authorizes your appointed person or agent to make any other decisions not outlined in the agreement for you. This document will only go into effect when you cannot make these decisions on your own.

3. Decide If You Will Be An Organ Donor

The decision to donate your organs is important and needs to be made quickly when the time comes. It is an easy decision for you to make in advance. Once you decide, put it in writing or include it in your DPAHC.

4. Pre-plan Your Arrangements At The Funeral Home

Meeting with the funeral home and making arrangements can take this burden off your family. You will be able to choose every component of your services. 

• Do you want a burial or cremation?
• Will your services be at the funeral parlor or an alternative location?
• Will your casket be pink or green?
• Who will speak at your service?
• Where will you be buried or will your ashes be spread?

The decisions you make can be just as unique as you are, and you can make them now.

For help with your planning, contact a funeral home in your area.