Adult Decisions
The end of life – no one is comfortable bringing up this subject, but it is important to discuss and finalize your plans as it is an inevitable part of the future. Creating a plan to detail and document your final wishes is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. Most adults do not have all the following ‘adult decisions’ made. Let us help you with the most-overlooked adult decision to be made. The following should be in place to protect your wishes, your finances and to assist your family and loved ones:
- Last Will and Testament
This is one of the most important legal documents a person can create during his or her lifetime. If a person dies without a Will they are said to have died “intestate” and state laws will determine how and to whom the person’s assets will be distributed. A will signed, witnessed and properly executed will ensure that your wishes are carried out as stated. - Durable Power of Attorney
A power of attorney is a written document through which you authorize someone (usually known as your agent or attorney-in-fact) to take actions for you and handle your financial affairs. However, if you become disabled or incompetent, the power of attorney is null. Therefore, a durable power of attorney is necessary so that your agent can continue to represent your interests should you no long have the mental or physical capability to make decisions. - Health Care Proxy
A Health Care Proxy is a simple legal document that allows you to choose someone (your “agent”) to make medical decisions for you, if, for any reason, you are unable to make these decisions yourself. You can give your agent the authority to make all medical decisions for you, or you can limit your agent’s authority by including a list of specific medical treatments you would accept or reject. It is similar to a Power of Attorney, but pertains to healthcare decisions only.
Download the Massachusetts form. - Pre-Plan Burial and Memorial Arrangements
Making a decision on the location of your remains and documenting how you would like to be memorialized ensures that your wishes will be faithfully carried out. Pre-planning prevents loved ones from carrying the burden of trying to guess your preferences, avoids disputes between family members and protects financial resources securing today’s rates.
Taking these steps now will actually make your future more secure and give you peace of mind that your loved ones will be spared the additional burden of making so many decisions during a difficult time. Walnut Grove’s caring and experienced staff will help you through the pre-planning process with the utmost attention and respect. Contact us today to set up an appointment to assist you in defining and documenting your burial preferences.