What are the important documents, information and key contacts to consider?
Navigating the last stage of life involves not only emotional preparation but also practical arrangements. Taking some simple steps can bring comfort and peace of mind to everyone involved. Here's a look at the essential documents and contacts to gather.
On this page
Essential Documents
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Will: A will outlines how we want our assets to be distributed after we pass away. This includes property, belongings, and financial accounts. Having a will ensures our wishes are respected and avoids potential conflict among loved ones.
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Power of Attorney (legal/financial and health): A power of attorney allows a trusted person to manage our legal and financial affairs if we become incapacitated. Consider creating separate documents for financial/legal and healthcare decisions.
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Advanced Directive: This document, also known as a living will or health directive, specifies our preferences for medical care in the event we are unable to communicate them ourselves. It allows you to have a say in decisions about resuscitation (DNR), life support, and pain management.
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Life Insurance Policy Information: Locate important documents related to your life insurance policy, including beneficiary information and contact details for the provider. This ensures loved ones can easily access these benefits.
- Digital Asset Management Plan: In an increasingly digital world, we should consider how digital assets like social media accounts, online banking, and email accounts should be handled. This includes instructions for accessing these assets and what to do with them.
Important Contacts
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Lawyer: Having an lawyer or solicitor readily available allows loved ones to navigate legal matters efficiently during a difficult time.
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Financial Advisor or Wealth Manager: If you have a financial advisor, include their contact details for assistance with managing your assets.
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Healthcare Providers: Keep a list of your primary care physician, specialists, and any other relevant healthcare professionals, along with their contact information.
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Trusted Family Members or Friends: These are the individuals who need immediate information about your estate and can assist in managing affairs according to one's documented wishes.
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Spiritual or Community Leaders: For many, spiritual support is crucial in the last stage of life. Informing a spiritual leader about the situation can provide emotional comfort and support.
Keeping it Organised
Enter these details and upload documents safely and securely in your Violet vault, via the 'things to do'. Regularly review and update these documents as needed.
By taking these simple steps, you can ensure a smoother and less stressful process for loved ones during a challenging time. Remember, open communication with family about your wishes is vital. Peace of mind for yourself translates to a more supported and secure experience for those you love.