Addressing Vulnerabilities with a Pre-Plan

When it comes to preplanning your funeral, it's not just about arranging the logistics; it's about safeguarding your loved ones from potential vulnerabilities they may face during their time of loss. By taking proactive measures and addressing these vulnerabilities head-on, you can ensure that your family is supported and protected in the face of adversity. Additionally, a preplan guarantees your preferences and desires for your funeral, providing you with the peace of mind that your wishes will be respected and upheld. 

Understand Your Planning Why

Before delving into the specifics, it's crucial to clarify why you're pre-planning your funeral. Identify key areas where you want to support your loved ones and the challenges or burdens you aim to protect them against. This understanding will guide your planning process and ensure that your efforts are focused on the areas that matter most.

We’ve listed some of the most common reasons for pre-planning below:

Recent Loss of a Loved One:

A survey from Homesteaders Life Company found that 22% of people who pre-planned had recently lost a loved one, and 70% of those pre-planners had been involved in planning a funeral for their loved one. 

Often, the pain of a loss coupled with the stress of making arrangements (and the 100+ decisions that come with that process) will encourage people to make their own funeral plan, protecting their loved ones from the burden they have recently endured.

Loss of a Partner:

25% of those who pre-plan are widowed according to Homesteaders Life Company report. In order to avoid the emotional and financial stress of funeral planning they’ve just experienced falling on their children, many opt to pre-plan and pre-pay their own funeral arrangements instead.

Getting Older:

13% of those who pre-planned felt they had finally reached the right age to pre-plan. While there is no ‘right’ age to pre-plan, many pre-planners take time to come to terms with their age and necessary arrangements. For more discussion on the right time to pre-plan check out our article on when to pre-plan.  

Veteran Status:

Many veterans and active American military personnel will pre-plan their funerals given the nature and risk of their profession as well as the funeral benefits they receive from the U.S. government. However, there is often confusion around the exact benefits veterans qualify for, so if you’re a veteran, do some research on your funeral benefit eligibility. 

Medicaid Spend-down:

When older folks need a higher level of care such as assisted living, there may be certain financial factors that get in the way. Some people may have too much money to qualify for public assisted living facilities covered by medicaid, which encourages them to ‘spend-down’ their income. A monthly payment for a funeral pre-plan can help these individuals qualify for the public, Medicaid-covered assisted living options they’re considering.

Owning a Legacy:

For some, pre-planning is advantageous for the freedom and agency it provides them over their personal legacy. For those who have chosen different lifestyles, traditions, or beliefs than the loved ones who would normally assume the role of funeral planning, pre-planning is an avenue to design deeply personal final arrangements that embody their life and spirit. 

Ultimately, there is no ‘correct’ reason to pre-plan your funeral. No matter your circumstances, pre-planning a funeral is a powerful way to gift your loved ones the freedom to grieve and heal without the stress of making arrangements for a lost loved one.

Identify Your Vulnerabilities

Certain life circumstances can create greater challenges when planning and navigating a funeral. By recognizing these vulnerabilities, you can tailor your plan to provide the necessary support and assistance to your loved ones. Keep reading for some of the common vulnerable areas to consider.

Concentrated Burden for Only Children:

If you have an only child, they may bear a heavy burden in communicating the loss, making key decisions, and potentially financing the expenses. Crafting a direct message to your child and assigning specific responsibilities can alleviate some of this burden.

Increased Tensions Among Siblings

Tensions between siblings can arise, especially when making logistical decisions and allocating financial responsibilities. Addressing these dynamics in your plan and assigning specific roles can help mitigate potential conflicts.

Complicated Family Dynamics

Blended families or the presence of estranged family members can add complexity to the planning process. Disputes over cremation versus burial, final resting places, and even cultural or religious differences may arise. By acknowledging these issues and incorporating detailed instructions into your plan, you can minimize friction and ensure everyone feels respected.

Geographical Disparities

Differences in physical proximity can impact family dynamics and involvement in the planning process. When planning, consider how to accommodate the needs of family members near and far to ensure they feel included and supported.

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Past Trauma Related to Loss

If the family has experienced traumatic loss or painful funeral experiences in the past, it's essential to address these issues sensitively. Building safety nets into your plan can help mitigate any lingering concerns and ensure a smoother experience for your loved ones.

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Take Proactive Measures

Pre-planning your funeral is a thoughtful way to protect your loved ones from the stress associated with making arrangements in a time of acute loss. An experienced pre-planning facilitator can help you address specific vulnerabilities and incorporate safeguards into your plan.

Conclusion 

Preplanning your funeral isn't just a practical step; it's a deeply compassionate act that protects your family from unnecessary stress and conflict. Whether it's assigning specific responsibilities, addressing past trauma, or accommodating diverse family dynamics, proactively addressing their vulnerabilities to an inevitable yet heartbreaking loss ensures your loved ones are supported, respected, and cared for during a challenging time.