Have you thought about end of life decisions?

I have started to think about end of life decisions lately.
I may only be 60 but so many people die "early".
I have nothing in place at the moment. No will, no care instructions, no plan on what happens if I become incapacitated.
Nothing in place regarding internment.
I am a registered organ donor but who would know that at the time of my death?
I have no one I have confided in about these issues.
I think it is time I talk to my GP to get some advice about these important issues.

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DoubleRings · 51-55, F

I kind of think about it. Also do not have a will or even a power of attorney in place. You’re right you cannot predict when that day will come. I’ve told my hubby what I wanted but he won’t remember anything.

In my area, a lawyer told me you can hand write a will and your wishes and it would be legal. It isn’t as secure as one made by a lawyer if anyone challenges it, but it’s good to have SOMEthing instead of nothing till you can get to a lawyer. Look into it.

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DoubleRings · 51-55, F

@SW-User well the same lawyer told me there’s nothing better about the 20$ will kits compared to writing it yourself. The ideal scenario is to get to a lawyer and have it done properly. Otherwise it stands a considerable chance that if it is challenged, even if witnessed by anyone other than a lawyer, that it could be scrapped entirely by a court.

Gusman · 61-69, M

@DoubleRings There will be no one to contest my will. With no family left and never having married I will donate my estate to the Smith Family.
The Smith Family is a national children's charity helping disadvantaged Australian children to get the most out of their education, so they can create better futures for themselves.

DoubleRings · 51-55, F

@Gusman That’s really nice of you. i would still get a lawyers guidance with that given that it’s a donation. also family may not be the one who contests, but banks and financial institutions who may reject a hand written will. you would be setting up your executor for a huge long term headache. If you have the time and resources I’d get it done by a lawyer, especially since it’s a entire donation. I’m sure that has its own legal implications when dealing with a will. It doesn’t take long to sit with a lawyer and get it done.

SW-User

GP? They can't advise you on making a will lol

Or what you want to do with your body when you die...you speak with a funeral director about that, and you can pay for it in advance if you want. If you're on the organ donor list, the NHS will already know. If and when you become incapacitated you can just remind whatever medical staff you have.

You don't make care plans until there is a need for them

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SW-User

@Gusman oh...thought you just meant organ donation where you get stitched up and buried after

That's not the same thing

Gusman · 61-69, M

@SW-User After my organs are donated then my corpse will go to the forensic scientists. 🙂

DoubleRings · 51-55, F

Not sure if you know but, I think organs are only donated if you are quasi - alive waiting for imminent death (ex on life support or something) They have to harvest your organs while alive so they are in proper condition for the recipient. Not sure 100% on that but pretty sure, but it’s good to have a plan in place in case. @Gusman you might be able to register online for it (I can where I’m from) or through your drivers permit. And make it known to your family and next of kin that you are donor.

CheekyBadger · M

For stuff related to after your death, e.g. burial va cremation or funeral type, best thing is to write them down and give it to someone who will be around after you’ve gone or include in a will. Depending on where you are, there are things called living wills that can give legal authority to care givers to take specific course of action if you are incapacitated.

DeWayfarer · 61-69, M

Don't know if it's even available where you are, yet that organ donation could possibly be available on your id or drivers license. They might charge a bit extra for that. It is available here in the USA.

There are as well separate cards you can keep near your ID for organ donations. There use to be here before it became available on drivers licenses.

Gusman · 61-69, M

@DeWayfarer I do have a plastic Donor card. So someone will go through my wallet for ID purposes.
I have the card with my license.

DeWayfarer · 61-69, M

@Gusman BTW I'm in the same situation as you. And I'm 63 now.

Gusman · 61-69, M

@DeWayfarer I will have a talk with my GP and get some advice/literature as to the steps necessary.

LadyBronte · 56-60, F

I have a living will. I am updating it this coming week. Good luck Gusman.

MonaReeves86 · 36-40, F

Make sure you include me 😌😌😌😌😌@LadyBronte

LadyBronte · 56-60, F

@MonaReeves86 I don't believe you understand what a living will is. It is an advanced directive for healthcare measures should someone become incapacited. It is not a disposition of assets.