As we age, it’s important to plan for the unexpected. Planning ahead can mean everything from getting your affairs in order so the people you know and trust can tend to them if you cannot, to identifying a health care proxy who will speak for you when you cannot speak for yourself. Some people are planning so far ahead that they are arranging a living funeral.
What’s a living funeral? In the words of one 60-year old woman, “It’s a just-in-case-you-kick-the-bucket party.” It’s a funeral for people who are still alive to bring the people they love together. It’s an event that allows people, including people with terminal illnesses, to bring closure to their lives in an organized way. It’s also a way to say goodbye to and celebrate life with the people nearest and dearest to you.
There are all sorts of ways to celebrate the life of an individual before he or she dies. Whatever way a living funeral is designed, it helps us all focus on the reality that we are all human and to think deeply about the people we love because they will not be around forever.
Here’s a short video explaining living funerals:
Here’s more from Just Care:
- HIPAA and why you need a health care proxy
- 5 steps to get your affairs in order
- Six tips for choosing a funeral home and funeral services
- Long-term care insurance likely won’t deliver what you need
- Improve your health with a buddy
