“What-if” Planning Blog
Spooky Consequences of Not Having an End-of-Life Plan
While Halloween is all about ghosts and ghouls, the real scares often come from things left undone—like end-of-life planning. Without a plan, you risk leaving your family with unanswered questions, costly delays, and lifelong uncertainty. From “Lost Control from Beyond” to “Family Hauntings,” the consequences can be chilling. Now is the time to consider not only your own end-of-life needs but also how to support your spouse or partner in the event of the unexpected.
Don’t leave loved ones with a haunting legacy. Discover simple steps to start planning today.
Top Myths and Mistakes of Advance Directives
Think your loved ones will automatically know your healthcare wishes? Not so fast. Discover common misconceptions and mistakes people make when it comes to advance directives and how you can avoid them.
In this blog, I share the emotional story of my wife Kris and the regrets I carry. Don’t leave your family guessing—start the conversation today.
Overcoming Procrastination – How Families Can Start End-of-Life Planning Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late—start your family’s end-of-life planning today! Whether you’re a young stay-at-home parent or an adult child of aging parents, now is the time to protect your loved ones, save money, and gain peace of mind. Learn the essential steps to secure your family’s future, including starting conversations, evaluating your current plans, and booking estate planning consultations. Take action now to avoid leaving your family vulnerable.
Talking to Reluctant Parents About End-of-Life Planning: Tips for Adult Children
Starting the conversation about end-of-life planning with your parents can be tough, especially when they don’t want to talk about it. In this post, we share practical strategies to help you navigate these sensitive discussions, from asking simple questions to leading by example. By encouraging them to prepare their affairs now, you’ll be giving both them and your family peace of mind for the future
10 Power of Attorney Myths That Could Ruin Your End-of-Life Plans
Discover the top 10 myths about power of attorney and learn the facts you need to protect your future and avoid common misconceptions.
Top 10 Reasons Every Stay-At-Home Parent Must Take Charge of the Family’s End-of-Life Plan
The top 10 reasons every stay-at-home parent should make sure their family has a what-if-the-breadwinning-partner-doesn’t-make-it-home-tonight plan.
Duties of an Executor of a Will
One of the tasks of creating a will is that the creator needs to name an executor and a backup executor. When the subject of the will dies, the executor is charged with making sure that all the wishes of the deceased are carried out properly. Depending on the complexity of the estate and/or how organized the deceased was, the job of an executor can be quick and easy or time-consuming and difficult. This should be a factor when considering whom you ask to play that role.
How Hurricanes Answer the Question, “Should I Have an End-of-Life Plan?”
Tropical storm Hilary hitting California is a reminder that disasters can strike anywhere at any time. It should also serve as motivation to have our affairs in order through end-of-life planning to protect family members from unnecessary hardships when an accident or illness impacts your family.
What is the Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice?
What is the difference between palliative care and hospice? These two terms are often misunderstood and used interchangeably. In this week’s blog we describe the difference as they may come up when you complete your advanced directive and living will.
Living Trusts versus Wills
Wills and trusts are two legal documents that are used in end-of-life planning. In some cases, both may be needed to properly get your affairs in order. In other situations, one or the other may suffice and/or be advantageous over the other. While the goals of each are similar, how the goals are accomplished through each of these legal instruments is different.
Including Pets in End-of-Life Planning
While our main goal is to prepare “the survivors” for the death of a family member, sometimes beloved survivors are also pets. These furry, loyal friends deserve to be accounted for in our end-of-life planning.
"I've Got the Power"...of Attorney
It is important to understand the concept of “power of attorney.” Various versions of this legal document are recommended as part of your end-of-life planning.