Arrangements to Make When You or a Loved One Has Terminal Illness
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you are likely to be flooded with emotion and may be unsure of the next step to take. It’s overwhelming to receive such life-changing news. Take the time you need to digest and process this information, then begin to prepare for the next steps. There are practical arrangements that need to be made to help make the coming days easier. Let’s discuss a few important arrangements to take care of that can benefit not only you but also your surviving loved ones.
Determine Plan of Care
When you have received the terminal diagnosis, one area to consider is your plan of care. First, talk to your doctor regarding available treatments and whether they are in your best interest. They may not save your life, but they may extend it. You also want to consider whether you would like to receive palliative care. According to Verywell Health, palliative care can begin at diagnosis, unlike hospice, and will help improve your quality of life and ease your symptoms. Patients receiving palliative care often live longer, experiencing relief from ailments and discomforts. Research which company you would like to receive care from and discuss the anticipated timeline of care with your doctor and loved ones.
Get Legal Matters in Order
In addition to making important medical decisions, it is also beneficial to get your legal matters in order. Most people are familiar with a traditional will, detailing the recipients of your estate and possessions. According to CNBC, there are other documents that you should draw up in order to ensure your wishes are respected. A living will is an important document, as it will direct your loved ones about which medical treatments you want, relieving them of the burden to decide. You can dictate what life-saving measures you are comfortable with and whether you would like to donate your organs. You need to assign both medical and financial powers of attorney to make decisions on your behalf for when you are no longer able to make them. The goal is to have all your legal documents fulfilled to make things easier on your loved ones.
Ensure Financial Security
Your legal documents help determine financial distribution, but it’s also helpful to secure proper insurance to cover expenses rather than relying on your personal finances. Burial insurance, for example, can be purchased to pay for funeral expenses (funeral home services, casket, gravestone, transportation, etc.) and any remaining medical or legal bills. The average cost of a funeral is over $11,000, and with proper insurance, you will be saving your family a large financial burden. Hopefully, you have already outlined detailed funeral instructions in your will if you have any funeral or burial preferences.
Photo by Unsplash
Check Off the Bucket List
With all documents in order, the last arrangement to be made is to enjoy your final days. Choosing to enjoy life rather than embracing death. Make your dream bucket list and enlist your friends and family in helping you check it off. Swim with dolphins. Attend the concert of your favorite band. If you dream of travel, plan a trip to your favorite destination. Studies have shown that travel is very beneficial for those diagnosed with a terminal illness. Touring new cities can result in deep spiritual meaning in addition to boosting self-confidence.
When you receive a terminal diagnosis, determine your plan of care, ensure your legal documents are in order, purchase burial insurance, and create a bucket list. Spend as much time with loved ones as you can and gain peace knowing that you have lived a life full of love.
If you enjoyed this post, please consider to leave a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.