Just recently, you will have noticed that our blog posts have focused on some of the most difficult issues that a person will have to deal with in their lives. Today’s blog post is no different with a discussion of some of the key points associated with the making of end of life decisions because they will not only impact upon you but also upon your loved ones. With this in mind, Laura Richardson considers the some of the key issues associated with the making of end of life decisions and how they may impact upon both you and your loved ones . . .

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Often it is hard to open a conversation about our end of life decisions. This is because it is typically considered to be inappropriate to discuss our own deaths and many people view the topic of death as a deeply personal and private matter, which should not be discussed. When looking to open discussions of this nature with friends or family members, I am usually told that their wishes will be made known “when the time is right”.

But what does this really mean?

Is there a right time to make your wishes known regarding your end of life decisions, for the medical treatment you are willing and, more importantly, unwilling to receive, for your Will and even your funeral preferences?

All too often, the “right time” never arrives!

My mother has told me on many occasions over the last twenty years that “when the right time comes”, she will let me and my siblings know the end of life decisions that she has made the details of her Will, along with the plans for her business, and her preferences for her funeral. However, as she approaches retirement age, the conversation has yet not come to fruition.

We are so frequently reminded of the fragility of life, in the media, as well as perhaps through the loss of our own friends, family members or acquaintances who sadly pass away at a young age, or in an unexpectedly sudden manner. It is therefore important to grasp that, in the same vein that “tomorrow never comes”, our “right time” for discussing our end of life decisions may never arise.

Perhaps you would rather that your end of life decisions remain private until such time as they need come into effect?

I have previously written about the many benefits of discussing your end of life plans with your family and loved ones, however at the very least, it is wise to make your family and loved ones aware of the location of the relevant documents.

It can give great peace of mind to know that your wishes are secured within legally recognised documentation, however it can also give your loved ones the same peace of mind to know that when the time comes, they will know your exact preferences for your end of life care and your funeral, along with the whereabouts of your Will and any other important documentation.

If you would like to discuss any aspects of your end of life preferences in a free initial consultation, contact Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services via www.andrewdouglaswills.co.uk today throughout Essex to find out how best to broach the subject of your end of life decisions.

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