How To Talk To Your Loved Ones About Their Final Wishes

Going over your loved one’s final wishes can be extremely hard. But, no matter how difficult it is, it is an important discussion to have. No one really wants to think about losing someone they love. However, having their final wishes will help ensure that everything is handled the way they wanted it to be. If this is a discussion you need to have, here are a few pieces of advice on how to go about it.

Think About Your Approach

This conversation may not only be difficult for you, but it may also be difficult for them. If it is a topic you know makes them uncomfortable perhaps approach the situation by saying: “I know this is difficult to think about, but have you considered what you’d like your arrangements to be?” Or, you may be able to bring it up in casual conversation. You know your loved one best, so carefully consider their personality before approaching the conversation.

Get Details

There are a lot of decisions that have to be made after someone passes away. Floral arrangements and coffin styles aren’t typically things someone is interested in discussing. However, finding out these small details will help everyone involved in the process because they will know the specifics rather than try to guess for themselves. Other items that should be discussed are where important documents are kept, their preference for the end of life care and what they would like done after they pass.

Don’t Worry About Tradition

Traditions aren’t everything when it comes to a loved one's final wishes. Let them know any decision they make will be the right one.

Be Prepared

It’s important to go into the situation prepared for any type of response. For most, it is a hard topic to discuss and may cause them to get upset. However, explain to them that you are only asking these things because you love them and want to do right by them. Some may become quiet and avoid the topic, and others may tell you their exact wishes. Be patient and mindful of their feelings during the entire conversation.

Pre-Need Planning

Pre-need planning helps when deciding the final resting place of your loved one. Choosing to plan ahead takes the stress off of family members who only wish to follow the instructions of their loved one that has passed.

There may be instances where despite your best efforts, your loved one may completely avoid the topic and never give you any details. In this event, seek help from friends and family when making decisions. Your ultimate goal is to feel happy with the choices you make.

Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery is a non-profit cemetery located at 6100 Three Notch Road in Mobile, Alabama. We are here to help those who are in need and make it a priority to preserve the memories of your loved ones in a dignified, honorable and comfortable place. Visit us online at www.mobilememorialgardens.org or on our Facebook page. If you have suffered a loss and would like to speak to us, please call us at 251-661-1333.