Top 30 Questions To Ask Yourself Right Now
To help initiate meaningful conversations use these prompts when starting conversations with loved ones about
end-of-life planning. Find helpful resources at the end of the questionnaire to continue your planning and conversations.
- Did you know that end-of-life planning reduces the stress of aging?
- Did you know that end-of-life planning often enhances family harmony?
- Did you know it tends to leave survivors more financially & emotionally resilient?
- Have you had a close family member or friend die?
- Do you know anyone who openly talks about what they want done after they’re gone?
- Have you discussed with your family what you want done with your body?
- Do you want to be cremated, buried, composted or recycled?
- Why do you prefer that option?
- What type of funeral would you like?
- Who is to be in charge of wrapping up all the details of your life?
- What if that person cannot fill the role?
- What are some of the challenges you’ve heard of survivors having after a death?
- Did you know only about half the adult population of Canada & the U.S. have a valid will?
- Do you have a will?
- Is it valid, current & easily found?
Advanced, for more in-depth conversations:
- Did you know that end-of-life planning is one of your most loving gifts?
- Do you know what happens when someone dies without having a will in place?
- Has anyone close to you acted as an executor?
- Are you familiar with the responsibilities of an executor?
- Did you know executors can be sued?
- Are you familiar with the circumstances of when a lawyer should be hired for will planning?
- Would you like to give your family & close friends one last chance to see you & say goodbye?
- Do you have a power of attorney set up in case you cannot communicate?
- Are you familiar with Advance Care Planning?
- Are you likely to be an executor or power of attorney for someone?
- Did you know organs and tissue can be donated after death, regardless of age?
- Are you familiar with medical assistance in dying? (MAiD)
- What are your thoughts regarding the MAiD program?
- Are you familiar with complicated grief?
- Have you heard of the Death Positive Movement?
Resources for End-Of-Life planning
CEA's are experts in their own field but also have broad practical knowledge of everything the executor needs to know. Uniquely equipped to steer executors away from potential problems and toward the professionals they need.
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STEP is a global professional body, comprising lawyers, accountants, trustees & other practitioners that help families plan for their futures.
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Established in 1995, FP Canada is a national not-for-profit education, certification & professional oversight organization working in the public interest. FP Canada is dedicated to championing better financial wellness for all Canadians by leading the advancement of professional financial planning in Canada.
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The Canadian Bar Association champions Canada’s legal profession and the rule of law in Canada. We are the largest association for legal professionals in the country, representing over 40,000 lawyers, judges, notaries, academics & students.
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The ABA was founded in 1878 on a commitment to set the legal and ethical foundation for the American nation. Today, it exists as a membership organization and stands committed to its mission of defending liberty and pursuing justice.
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FSAC is the national voice representing Canada’s funeral homes, cemeteries, crematoriums, suppliers, & other professionals in the deathcare profession. As a dedicated ally and advocate, FSAC champions the value of meaningful end-of-life services through education, public awareness, legislative guidance, & advocacy.
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The Personal Fiduciary Certificate is the gold standard for anybody acting in the capacity of a Personal Fiduciary such as Powers of Attorney, Executors & anybody else expected to act in a fair, honest & transparent manner.
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An innovative & comprehensive website offering all sorts of funeral related services to help preserve memories & simplify planning.
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Peacehold’s pre-planning service helps organize & prepare your estate documents before they’re needed—saving your family time, stress, & confusion during an already difficult time. For a one-time fee, they provide a comprehensive, customized package that guides your representative through hundreds of administrative tasks after your passing.
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Acting as a fiduciary comes with countless responsibilities, & it's easy to stray from following fiduciary best practices, particularly when Canadians have not had the opportunity to fully learn what those responsibilities entail.
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Adrianna Prosser is known as Lady Death Doula on social media, a Toronto located grief educator, soul companion, and mental health advocate ready to support you.
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For testators wanting to ensure their estates are well prepared, so as not to be a burden on their executors, CEAs can offer tremendous value.
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