When Death is Imminent

When death is imminent, it is important that certain steps be taken to become better prepared for the coming days.

Note that this section is very limited. You should have reviewed and prepared documents listed on the Life Planning page.

The following is not a complete list, but some of the items to consider are:

• Family members or inheritors should be informed the where about of following important documents/arrangements:
  • Plans for any pets
  • Mobile phone password
  • Email password
  • Body/Organ donor agency contact
• The person’s wishes about funeral arrangements, organ donation, and burial or cremation should be pre-determined
• The person completes an advance directive, including a living will, which specifies wanted and unwanted procedures. The person should also appoint a health-care proxy to make medical decisions if he or she becomes incapacitated.
• Have a do-not-resuscitate order drawn up if the person desires. That tells health-care professionals not to perform CPR if the person’s heart or breathing stops and restarting would not result in a meaningful life.
• Make sure to give copies of the pertinent documents to his or her doctor and a few family members or friends. Take the documents to the hospital if the person is admitted.
• Get wishes on religious rites including where the ashes will be scattered.