Sorrow is an emotion that many of us choose to steer clear of at all costs, and this is one of the main reasons why a large proportion of people avoid talking about death.
Yet while end-of-life conversations can be uncomfortable, overwhelming and confronting, they are important discussions to have with your loved ones. We explain why below.
Talking about Death: Why it’s Important
Sitting down with your loved ones prior to your death to talk about it can be upsetting, but it will give you a chance to share your wishes for your final days, funeral service and final resting place with them at a time when they are not overcome with grief.
If you do unexpectedly become sick or pass away, you will have expressed your desires to your family and friends and consequently given them guidance on how to make difficult end-of-life and funeral planning decisions. This ensures that they won’t have to worry about whether they’re making the right choices when they are mourning.
End-of-Life Conversations with Family: What to Discuss
- End-of-life care:
- Where do you want to receive care at the end of your life?
- What type of care would you like to receive?
- Funeral wishes:
- Where would you like your final resting place to be? Would you like to be buried or cremated?
- How do you want your funeral service to celebrate your life/how do you want to be remembered?
- What personal touches would you like to include? There are numerous ways to personalise funerals including flowers, music, and coffins.
- Decision-maker:
- If you are incapable of making decisions about end-of-life care and funeral planning, who would you like to be responsible for any of these choices?
- Financially prepare for a funeral
- Funeral costs can add up quickly, so how will you cover the expense? There are a number of payment options, but being prepared and discussing this before death can ease the stress for your family members when the time comes to pay for the service, burial or cremation.
Did you know you can create an Advance Care Directive for yourself, which outlines your preferences for future care and within it you can also formally appoint a substitute decision-maker. Read more about Advance Care Directives here.
For further funeral planning resources, head to our blog feed. If you’d like to talk to one of our friendly team members in Brisbane, please call us today on (07) 3217 3088.
Anton Brown Funerals is a family-owned, Queensland funeral company which was established in 1995.
Our Brisbane-based team of funeral directors are honest, professional, compassionate and understanding, and always put our clients and their needs first.
We go above and beyond to ensure your loved one’s funeral arrangements are tailored to their final wishes and can assist you with burials, cremations, coffins, floral arrangements, pre-planning and more.
If you need help organising a dignified funeral service, we are available to discuss arrangements 24/7, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today on (07) 3217 3088 or send us a message online here.
