CARING FOR YOUR LOVED ONES, EVEN AFTER YOU’RE GONE
A simple guide to will, funeral, care, and legacy planning in Singapore.
WHAT TO PLAN?
WILL
Creating a Will that serves as your official instructions for how your assets and loved ones should be cared for after you’re gone.
FUNERAL
Understand the process of planning a funeral and documenting your final wishes to ease the emotional and logistical burden on your family.
Care
Explore future healthcare options, such as making an Advance Care Plan (ACP) to document your preferences for care and treatment.
Legacy
Consider how you want to be remembered by planning the legacy you wish to leave behind, from your values and stories to meaningful contributions.
Why Planning Ahead is a Gift to Your Family
End-of-life planning is one of the most thoughtful and caring things you can do for your loved ones. It ensures your final wishes are clearly understood and respected, protecting your family from making difficult decisions under stress and preventing potential disagreements. It is an act of love that provides clarity and peace of mind for everyone.
Taking the First Step on Your Planning Journey
Getting started with end-of-life planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s not about having everything figured out at once. It’s simply about starting the conversation and taking small, manageable steps to create a plan that reflects your wishes.
HOW TO PLAN FOR MY JOURNEY?
Thinking about the future can be broken down into a few simple stages.
1. Reflect on Your Wishes
Take some time to think about what is most important to you—for your family, your health, and your legacy.
2. Talk with Your Loved One
Share your thoughts with your family. An open conversation can prevent future misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.
3. Document Your Plans
Formally document your wishes by creating legal documents like a will and an Advance Care Plan (ACP).
4. Review & Update
Life changes, and so can your plans. It’s a good practice to review your documents every few years to ensure they still reflect your wishes.
Ollie's Tips for a Smoother Planning Journey
Here are a few tips to make the planning process more thoughtful and manageable.
1. Start the Conversation Early
Beginning early gives you more time to think clearly and make unhurried, considered decisions without pressure.
2. Focus on the Essentials First
Prioritise what’s most important, like creating a valid will and ensuring your loved ones know your basic wishes.
3. Organise Your Important Documents
Keep your will, insurance policies, and other key documents in a safe, accessible place and let a trusted family member know where to find them.
4. Communicate Openly
The most valuable part of planning is talking about it. Sharing your intentions ensures your loved ones feel confident and respected when carrying out your wishes.
Who Can Help You on This Journey?
As you navigate your planning, you may want to consult various professionals who can provide expert guidance. These can include:
Lawyers or Professional Will Writers for creating legally sound wills.
Financial Advisors for planning your estate and insurance needs.
Healthcare Professionals or ACP Facilitators for discussing your future medical care preferences.
Funeral Directors for helping you understand and pre-plan funeral arrangements.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It covers your final wishes for your assets (Will), medical care (Care), funeral arrangements (Funeral), and how you’ll be remembered (Legacy).
Yes, you can and should update your plan anytime, especially after major life events like marriage or having children.
No, the most important parts like talking to family are free, and professional services are a small investment to prevent future stress for your loved ones.
A Will distributes your assets after you pass away, while an LPA lets someone make decisions for you while you are alive if you lose mental capacity.
The best time is now; planning is for any adult who wants to make things easier for their loved ones in the future.
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