We all have different ways of acknowledging that we will one day leave this mortal life. Though the when and the how is often unknown, it is possible to prepare for the inevitability. Preparation helps ensure peace of mind and minimize the emotional challenges that are typically associated with decision making at the time of loss.

Your Pine Knoll Shores Council on Successful Aging recently hosted a forum regarding end-of-life arrangements at the A.C. Hall Municipal Building. Mr. Steve Odom, an owner and the General Manager of Munden Funeral Home, provided a thorough review of the steps required in planning for your farewell.

The Importance of End-of-Life Pre-Planning

Mr. Odom stressed the importance of pre-planning. Begin with a written review of your life and these legal documents:

• Last Will and Testament.
• General Power of Attorney.
• Health Care Power of Attorney (directs your representative to aid or make decisions regarding your health care).

Have an honest conversation with your chosen representative so your final wishes will be honored.

Financial and Legal Considerations

Pre-planning should review the financial implications of your choices, but it does not mean you must pre-pay for services in advance.

Biographical Information to Gather

Another key step is assembling biographical information for death certificates, obituaries/announcements, and the orderly transfer or closing of assets:

• Full name, date and place of birth.
• Education and employment history.
• Family members and religious affiliation.
• Military service.
• Other pertinent details you want conveyed.

Types of Funeral Services

Funeral services can be simple or more involved and can be customized for the individual and family. Personalization may include:

• Video tributes.
• Religious services with after-service receptions and catering options.
• Fallen Hero Programs for law enforcement officers.
• Military services for honorably discharged retirees and veterans.

How Funeral Homes Can Help

Funeral homes are familiar with pre-planning requirements, including location/type of burial (in- or out-of-state, out of country, or Veteran cemetery), laws on distribution of cremated ashes, and management of organ or anatomical donation.

Final Thoughts

While the many decisions can feel overwhelming, discussing your plans with funeral service experts can provide comfort that your wishes are understood and will be honored—and it spares your family difficult decisions at a challenging time.

Mr. Odom’s presentation was videotaped and can be found on our website.

Your Pine Knoll Shores Council on Successful Aging will continue to seek out topics and resources to connect you, our residents, with solutions to aging gracefully and successfully in place. Help us help others. Please share this information.

*Credit is due to Maya Angelou for the title from her poem, “When Great Trees Fall,” as she reminds us: “…when great souls die, after a period, peace blooms …our senses …whisper to us… they existed… we can be better… for they existed.”