wbjournal.com | October 21, 2024 | Worcester Business Journal 7
HOUSING READINESS
Aging in place
• Modify home for accessibility
• Identify programs for assistance
- Delivery services (meals, groceries, prescriptions)
- Financial assistance (loans, affordable housing, fuel)
- In-home care
Research senior living options (55+, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing)
ESTATE PLANNING
Create a will
Designate durable power of attorney
Consider a living trust
Develop special needs or supplemental trust if applicable
Consider charitable gifts
END-OF-LIFE ARRANGEMENTS
Update life insurance policy
Sort & designate estate items for beneficiaries
Consider Comfort Care/Do Not Resuscitate (CC/DNR) order
Consider organ donation
Pre-plan funeral or memorial
Purchase burial plot
Share contingency plan for dependents
Arrange contingency home for pet(s)
COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILY AND TRUSTEES
Share information with loved ones early
• Keep documents in one place
- Contacts list (including friends & extended family members)
- Accounts with security codes
- Advance directives (including wishes concerning pain management)
- Estate planning documents
- Important papers
~ Social Security card
~ Birth, marriage, divorce, citizenship, adoption certificates
~ Deeds and titles
~ Insurance policies
~ Stock certificates
~ Military records
~ Safe deposit box location & key
~ Records of debts
~ State & federal tax documents
- Final wishes
• Update regularly!
