End of life arrangements checklist.
This is an artificial intelligence created checklist for making end of life arrangements. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list, rather a place to start. We are not legal advisors and suggest contacting appropriate qualified parties for information tailored to your specific needs and location.
1. **Legal and Financial Documents:**
- Create or update a will.
- Establish a power of attorney.
- Prepare an advance healthcare directive/living will.
- Designate a healthcare proxy.
- Review and update beneficiaries on financial accounts and insurance policies.
- Organize important documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security card, etc.).
- Consider setting up a trust.
2. **Funeral and Burial Preferences:**
- Decide on burial vs. cremation.
- Research green burial options and locations.
- Document funeral service preferences (type of service, location, etc.).
- Choose a funeral home or service provider.
- Plan for any religious or cultural rituals.
3. **Communication:**
- Inform family and loved ones of your wishes.
- Designate a person to oversee your end-of-life arrangements.
- Write letters or messages to be shared with loved ones after passing.
4. **Medical Considerations:**
- Ensure all medical records are organized and accessible.
- Discuss end-of-life care preferences with your healthcare provider.
- Consider hospice care options if necessary.
5. **Personal Affairs:**
- Create a list of all digital accounts and passwords.
- Make arrangements for pets.
- Plan for the distribution of personal belongings and keepsakes.
6. **Green Burial Checklist**
-Research and Select a Green Burial Site.
- Locate green burial cemeteries or natural burial grounds.
- Visit potential sites and discuss options with cemetery staff.
- Understand the rules and regulations of the chosen site.
2. **Eco-Friendly Burial Products:**
- Choose a biodegradable casket or shroud.
- Consider eco-friendly clothing for burial (natural fibers).
- Decide on natural grave markers (e.g., native plants, stones).
3. **Funeral Service:**
- Plan a service that aligns with green burial principles (minimal environmental impact).
- Incorporate sustainable practices (e.g., local flowers, carpooling).
- Arrange for any specific rituals or ceremonies.
4. **Permits and Legalities:**
- Obtain necessary permits for burial.
- Ensure all legal documents are completed and filed.
5. **Preparation and Transport:**
- Choose a funeral home that supports green burials.
- Arrange for the eco-friendly transport of the deceased to the burial site.
6. **Memorialization:**
- Plan for a natural or simple memorial.
- Consider creating a living memorial, such as planting a tree.
7. **Post-Burial:**
- Plan for site visits and maintenance in an eco-friendly manner.
- Consider supporting or donating to environmental causes in memory of the deceased.
**Additional Considerations**
**Insurance:**
- Review and update life insurance policies.
- Ensure all beneficiaries are correct.
**Organ Donation:**
- Register for organ donation if desired.
- Inform family and healthcare providers of your wishes.
**Communication and Support:**
- Set up grief support for family and loved ones.
- Create a contact list for informing friends and relatives.
This can feel a little overwhelming but doing just a few of these items is a start and your family and loved ones will appreciate your efforts.