The purpose of Dying Matters week is to open up the conversation around death, dying and bereavement. Death is one of the biggest conversational taboos. Some people may not like consider the world without their loved ones in it while others find the topic morbid. However, it is important to remember that death comes to everyone and that grief does not mark the end of the love you have for the person who has passed away.
With that in mind it is worth considering your own options for after death. Is there anyone that knows your wishes? Have you even thought about it?
If not, maybe now is the time to put together some instructions for your family or friends.
The Ceremony
There are a lot of things to ponder when planning your own funeral. If you are already feeling overwhelmed imagine how your loved ones will feel in the throes of bereavement trying to make these decisions.
Below I’ve put together a checklist of some of the choices available:
- Would you like a religious or non-religious ceremony?
- Would you prefer to be buried or cremated?
- Are there any songs you would like to be played?
- Would you prefer donations made to the charity of your choice instead of flowers?
- Do you have any favourite poems or readings you would like to be read out?
- Are there any special clothes that you would like to wear?
There are many more questions to be answered but for now these are the important ones. You can add as much detail as you like, after all it is your funeral.
Discussing Your Decisions
It’s important to convey your wishes to your friends and family. It is usually best to write them down so that it is easier to remember in the event of your death.
Dying Matters has a leaflet called ‘My Funeral Wishes’ which you can use to record your instructions.
You can also use a notebook and leave it in the care of a trusted individual or put it away somewhere safe and let them know where to find it when the time comes.
You could also make your wishes known through your Will; however, this part of the Will is not legally binding or you can write a Letter of Wishes to be stored alongside your Will. If you choose to make arrangements with a funeral director ahead of time, they will also keep your wishes safe for you.
Paying for Your Funeral
There is also the option of putting a plan in place to pay for your funeral. This can help your loved ones if there are financial issues to consider.
Here are some of the choices available:
- Pre -paid funeral plans
- Life insurance
- Leaving money in your estate to cover funeral costs.
Another tip is to document and organise your key personal information. This will be a necessity when it comes to wrapping up your affairs.
The best way to think about planning your funeral is to consider it as a parting gift to those that you are leaving behind. By doing this you will be making an emotional time much easier and ensuring you get the send-off you deserve.
