The Importance of Discussing Illness and Death with Our Loved Ones

Some conversations are more awkward than others, and while discussing illness and death with our loved ones can feel uncomfortable, it is also important and helpful to do so.

A difficult part of life is that accidents, illnesses, and death are inevitable, and unfortunately often unexpected too. Not talking about these serious realities doesn’t make them less likely to occur, but talking about them can help our loved ones be better prepared to handle a crisis when it happens.

Letting your loved ones know your wishes, your concerns, and your feelings can help them have more peace of mind during incredibly stressful situations, and this clear communication is very practical too.

Having Estate Plans and current documents in place, such as Health Care Surrogate and Power of Attorney, can help us and our loved ones better manage these emergency situations when they happen.

By addressing these serious preparedness concerns and being proactive about planning for the need of long-term care though comprehensive Estate Planning, we can feel more confidentand positive about our current situations and our futures.

Addressing any changes or concerns you have about your and your family’s health, financial situation, and plans for the future through holistic Estate Planning is one of the most important and practical things you can do in terms of being prepared for the unexpected.

Our compassionate and caring Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorneys are here for you, and they are sensitive to you and your family’s unique needs and concerns.

If you need to initiate an Estate Planning review, or new Estate Planning case at this time, we are happy to assist you. Depending on your level of comfort and abilities, we can handle your initial intake or planning review consult by phone, video conference, or in person in most instances. We are also happy to conduct socially-distanced signings.

If it has been a while since you last updated your plan with our office, please remember that a review and update is typically needed:

1. If more than 3 years have passed since you signed your planning documents;

2. If new children have been born or adopted;

3. If your children have now become adults;

4. If you have become a grandparent;

5. If there has been a significant change in the value or composition of your planning assets;

6. If you have disposed of specific assets which were going to a named beneficiary;

7. If one or more of your named beneficiaries have deceased or are now under a disability;

8. If one or more of your named fiduciaries, agents, or surrogates have deceased, are now under a disability, or are no longer appropriate to serve for you;

9. If there have been significant tax law changes since you signed your plan; or

10. If there have been significant Florida law changes since you signed your plan.

Our Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and empathy necessary to guide you in preparing a Will or Trust, or in legally representing you in a Probate or Trust Administration. If you have any concerns about Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, Designation of Health Care Surrogate, or managing the costs of long-term care, please do not delay. Call us today at (904) 264-8800, and set up a phone, video, or in-person appointment today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate, and caring Elder Law Attorneys. With offices, located in Jacksonville, Orange Park, and St. Augustine we are here to help you and your loved ones have more peace of mind.

Attorneys Grady and Alison

We are your Florida First Coast Elder Law Attorneys.