Planning for the end of life is a thoughtful and practical way to ease the burden on your loved ones when the time comes. By making arrangements in advance, you ensure that your wishes are respected and that your family has clear guidance during a difficult time.
Start Planning Ahead
Taking the first steps can provide peace of mind for both you and your family. Here’s how you can begin:
- Understand why you should plan ahead and how it benefits your loved ones.
- Organize important documents and keep them in a secure, accessible place.
- Store documents digitally using My Legacy Vault for added security.
- Share your funeral wishes to ensure your preferences are honored.
For personalized assistance, consider booking an appointment with the ServiceSG Life Planning Service (LPS). If you are looking for Islamic legacy planning, visit Muis Islamic Legacy Planning for more details.
Prepare Financial and Legal Documents
To ensure your assets and personal affairs are handled according to your wishes:
- Write a will to specify how your money, property, and possessions should be distributed.
- Make a CPF nomination to designate beneficiaries for your CPF savings.
- Create a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.
The LPA process involves:
- Completing Form 1 or Form 2 (for complex arrangements)
- Certification by a qualified professional
- Registration with the Office of the Public Guardian
- Regular reviews (recommended every 3-5 years)
Consider Healthcare Preferences
Think about your medical care preferences in advance, including:
- Advance Care Planning (ACP) to document your healthcare wishes.
Advance Care Planning (ACP) Process
- Reflection: Consider your values and treatment preferences
- Discussion: Family meetings with healthcare providers
- Documentation: Formalize wishes with an ACP facilitator
- Storage: Upload to National Electronic Health Record
Treatment options to consider:
- Resuscitation orders (DNR)
- Artificial nutrition preferences
- Pain management levels
- Organ donation wishes
- Preferred treatment options in case of serious illness.
Get Palliative Care
If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, palliative care can provide comfort and support. Explore available services to ensure quality care during challenging times.
Support for Caregivers
Caring for someone nearing the end of life can be emotionally and physically demanding. Seek resources and support to help manage caregiving responsibilities effectively.
Find the Services You Need
Access essential services for end-of-life planning, palliative care, and post-death arrangements through Find a Service.
Frequently Overlooked Details
- Pet care instructions
- Heirloom distribution wishes
- Social media memorialization preferences
- Charity donation requests
- Business succession plans (if applicable)
By approaching end-of-life planning as an act of care rather than morbidity, you create a lasting gift for those you love.
