Thinking about end-of-life arrangements can be emotionally fraught, and bringing up the subject of funeral preplanning with your parents can be even more difficult. For you and them, funeral arrangements can evoke fear, and it can be easier to put off the subject as long as possible. However, preplanning can make it much easier on the grieving family and friends. It’s also a respectful way of making sure your loved one’s wishes are fulfilled. If you’re thinking about bringing up the subject, here’s what you need to know. 

How Should You Approach the Subject?

With a difficult, emotional subject like this, how you broach the topic will depend a lot on your family dynamics. Setting a formal time to sit down and discuss it, where all parties have time to prepare ahead of time, may work for some families. You could also bring up your own funeral plans first, to encourage reciprocation.

Additionally, try getting them to reminisce about other family services in the past. Get a sense of what they approved of and liked, as well as family traditions they want. Depending on your parent’s response, you may need to bring it up several times. However, don’t push, and let them answer your questions at their own pace. 

What Questions Should You Ask? 

Funeral preplanning questions can seem harsh when out of context, which is why it’s important to ease into the subject carefully. However, there are important decisions that you will have to make when they pass away, and knowing what they want can ease a lot of the stress and guilt on you.

Start by asking about the basics, such as do they prefer a burial or cremation? What cemetery do they prefer, or where would they like to see the ashes buried? Ask about the style, such as what kind of music or readings they would like at the service, or what kind of flowers they prefer. Remember to take your time and listen. Take notes, as writing down exactly what your parent prefers will give you comfort later. 

Better Life Management in Volusia County, FL, specializes in end of life planning. They offer a wide range of financial services when it comes to end of life care and funeral preplanning, including funeral insurance and care plans. They also offer their expertise for making decisions. For more information about their funeral preplanning consulting services, call (855) 256-4968. You can also learn more about the many instant approval carriers they work with by visiting their website.