Finding out that you or a loved one are facing a terminal diagnosis can be a devastating blow. If all medical options have been exhausted and you choose to move into a phase of palliative care, it may be time to consider end-of-life planning measures. A hospice team can help during this transitional period, serving as a kind and caring resource for you during this difficult time. Graceland Cemetery is another resource not only for end-of-life preparations, but for grief support and other necessary services.

Ensuring Your Wishes Are Met

According to HelpGuide, if you have not already prepared a will, created advanced directives, or given power of attorney to a trusted friend or loved one, now is the time to take care of these details. This is especially important when it comes to making legally-binding arrangements for your end of life care. Advance directives clearly spell out care wishes for both family members and health care providers, and granting power of attorney allows someone you trust to make final decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so on your own. If you have minor children or pets, guardianship matters should also be considered.

Final Care Options

Many people prefer to stay in their home as long as possible, and may choose to utilize the services of an in-home nurse or hospice care provider. According to Care.com, these compassionate individuals can help ease the whole family through this challenging period, as well as provide practical care measures, pain management, and comfort care during the final stages of illness. Your insurance provider or Medicaid or Medicare can help you understand your various options for securing and paying for in-home or facility-based palliative care needs.

Personal And Spiritual Care

It’s never easy for friends or family to say goodbye when they recognize the end of life is approaching. However, this type of closure (as well as a connection to spiritual guidance, should you choose it for yourself or your loved one) can all help ease the pain. A church or other religious or spiritual organization can be a great comfort in this time, and a non-denominational hospice chaplain can also be extremely helpful in this respect. Some terminal patients will want to see family and friends, while others may be closed off. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to approach this time. Every individual and every family will have their own unique needs.

Making Final Preparations

When it comes to managing the final details of an individual’s life, there are some practical considerations that must be kept in mind. In addition to making funeral arrangements or planning a memorial service, many families opt to sell the decedent’s home and personal property after the individual has passed away. While this can be an emotionally charged undertaking, a thoughtful and professional real estate agent can help guide you in this effort. If an individual passes away in the home, this may need to be disclosed at the time of sale, but your real estate advisor can help you in this area as well.

End-of-life preparations are never easy, but having a plan of action, utilizing the resources at your disposal, and relying on the care and kindness of loved ones can help make the transition a peaceful one.

Graceland Cemetery is home to knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate professionals who can help you through this difficult time. Visit the website for more information on reputable organizations that aid in grief support. If you’re in the Milwaukee, WI area, reach out for more information on services.

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