Things Left in the Dark

We go through life engaging in a variety of experiences. We love. We hurt. We develop daily routines. Some live prosperous lives, while other struggles. Families bond and others disengage.

We have those talks; you know the ones when we discuss who we like or dislike, express opinions on a variety of subjects, and share thoughts of love.

We shine a light on memorable moments and conversations and turn the light off on others due to a lack of comfort. However, the topic often left out of conversations due to the discomfort is the subject of death.

Yes. Death is often left in the dark. Why is this subject worth discussing now? Because I encounter too many families who have loved ones dieing, but relatives and friends are placed in a compromising position due to one’s previous discomfort with the issue.

Everyone is going to die at some point. Whether or not we are going to die is not the issue. The issue is the lack in preparation for death.

Life Insurance

Life insurance is a critical need. This is the insurance everyone should have. It is just as important for children to be covered. No one knows when they are going to die. However, the family should have some sort of financial assistance when this happens. Life insurance will help to avoid debt for your family when you die.

Make certain the amount of insurance taken out will be a good amount for your family. If you hope to have a $10,000 funeral, do not have a $5,000 life insurance policy. Understand your policy. So many people purchase life insurance policies without completely understanding the specifics.

Make certain this policy is worth your investment. This would include policies through your job. If the policy will no longer uphold when you leave the job, seek out an additional policy.

Advance Directives

Advance Directives identify the choices your family and physician will make in the event of a health crisis. Advance Directives include Directives to Physician and Family or Surrogates, Medical Power of Attorney, Out of Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order, and Declaration for Mental Health Treatment.

Directives to Physician and Family/Surrogates

The Directives to Physician and Family or Surrogates is a written form which expresses your desires in the event you have a medical crisis and you are not able to speak for yourself. This is recommended to be completed once a person enters adulthood.