Ending Life Well: Conversations & Connections
Navigating the Aftermath: A Checklist for When a Loved One Passes
By Alex Trevino , Caregiving and End of Life Specialist Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound challenges. The days that follow can feel overwhelming, making the road to travel a bit blurry. In those moments, having a roadmap can provide clarity and ease some of the burdens. This checklist offers essential steps to help guide you. Keep in mind that some steps may not apply to everyone. Obtain a Legal Pronouncement of Death A legal confirmation of death is required to issue a death certificate, which is essential for many administrative tasks. Hospital or hospice staff usually handle this, but if the death occurs at home, contact emergency services, or the attending physician. Notify Family Members and Close Friends Sharing the news is difficult, but necessary. Begin with immediate family members and close friends. Do not hesitate to ask them for support and to assist with planning. Arrange for Organ Donation (if applicable) If the deceased registered as an organ donor, time is of the essence. Check their driver’s license, donor card, or medical records. Contact a Funeral Home Choose a funeral home that aligns with the deceased person’s wishes and your family’s preferences. They can help with arrangements for burial, cremation, or memorial services.
Seek Grief Support Grief is a deeply personal journey, and support is available. Consider counseling, support groups, or other resources to help process your emotions. This list is not an exhaustive checklist, and circumstances may vary. Take one step at a time and ask for assistance from trusted family members, friends, or professionals. Looking Ahead Make sure your affairs are in order. Completing your Advance Directives is a critical step to ensure your wishes are known and to help your loved ones avoid unnecessary confusion and stress. Our next article will provide a comprehensive End of Life Planning Checklist to help you, and your loved ones stay informed and prepared. PCOA is here to guide you through this process and offer support with End of Life planning. Call the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262 to get started today.
Request Multiple Death Certificates Certified death certificates are needed for many tasks including closing accounts, filing insurance claims, and settling estates. Order multiple copies (10-20 is often recommended) to ensure you have enough. Be mindful that certified death certificates are often available only after paying a fee for each copy. Notify Employers and Relevant Agencies Inform the deceased person’s employer to process final wages and benefits. Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to halt payments and apply for survivor benefits, if applicable. File Life Insurance Claims Notify insurance companies to begin claim processes. Have policy numbers and certified death certificates available when you call. Handle Financial and Legal Matters Work with an attorney to execute the will or Living Trust. If a will is not in place, legal professionals can help you navigate probate. Notify banks and creditors to manage debts and close accounts. Cancel Services and Secure Online Accounts Prevent identity theft by closing or memorializing social media accounts and canceling subscriptions. Redirect mail as needed.
Shaaron Kent Endowment held at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
Page 18 | January/February 2025, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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