The passing of a loved one is always a difficult ordeal, whatever the situation. In some cases, however, you can see the final farewell coming and better prepare for it.

In the case of medical aid in dying, for example, we know the date on which our loved one will leave us. Although this situation is just as trying, it does allow us to prepare for this great departure and lighten the burden of the procedures that will follow.

In this article, we will share information, advice and useful resources to help you anticipate the death of a loved one and accompany them in their final moments.

Opening up discussion: what you need to know

When we learn that a loved one will soon be passing away, we may be tempted to avoid dealing with sensitive issues, in an attempt to postpone the inevitable. Although natural, this reaction will only make things more difficult after the departure of your loved one.

That’s why, however difficult this stage may be, it’s vital to have a discussion with the person whose death is imminent, to ensure that their final departure will be peaceful and serene for them, as well as for you and your family.

You may want to ensure that essential arrangements have been taken care of by your loved one. While respecting their privacy and decisions, open the discussion on the procedures that will follow their departure.

Questions you should ask before the passing of a loved one:

• Have funeral pre-arrangements been planned?
• Have they drawn up a will?
• Have they formulated any other last wishes?
• Have they decided which funeral rituals will follow their final farewell?
• Have they reserved a spot in a cemetery or columbarium for their final resting place?

Funeral pre-arrangements, will and last wishes Funeral pre-arrangements are decisions made about a person’s mode of disposition, funeral rituals and final resting location after death. Pre-arrangements are planned with a funeral director. A will is a legal document that records a testator’s wishes regarding the distribution of their estate after their death. A will is drawn up by a lawyer or notary. Last wishes are all the wishes expressed by a person before their death. These wishes can be expressed in a will, funeral pre-arrangements or any other written document.

Funeral pre-arrangements: a judicious option

It’s never too late to plan ahead. If the person who will soon be leaving you has not planned their funeral pre-arrangements, there is still time to meet with an Urgel Bourgie / Athos funeral director to do so.

Our team is available and flexible, adapting to your needs and those of your loved one, to accommodate your availability as quickly as possible.

When meeting with one of our funeral directors, the person wishing to plan their pre-arrangements will be guided through the various choices to be made according to their values and needs. The funeral director will explain the different options for funeral rituals, arrangements and resting places, and help them select those that best suit their needs.

By choosing the expertise of an Urgel Bourgie / Athos funeral director, you can lighten the burden of preparation and focus on what’s most important: spending quality time with your loved one and creating memories to cherish for years to come.

 

Protection Mandate When a person is physically or mentally incapable of preparing their own pre-arrangements, a protection mandate (previously called a “mandate in case of incapacity”) is used. A mandatary is then appointed and authorized to make decisions in the person’s place, during his or her lifetime. The protection mandate expires upon the death of the person to whom it applies.

Getting help after the loss of a loved one

Preparing for the departure of a loved one also means ensuring that we have the tools we need to grieve once that person has left us. This stage is just as important as the administrative procedures and ritual planning.

It’s essential to be well supported after the loss of a loved one. While those around us can provide love and comfort, professional help is also important.

To better support bereaved families, Urgel Bourgie / Athos offers a no-cost service of 3 meetings with a professional psychotherapist, or membership in the  Réflexions du Cœur’s “Cœur à Cœur” program.

Celebrate your loved ones with Urgel Bourgie / Athos

Peace of mind is at the heart of Urgel Bourgie / Athos’ services. We are committed to guiding families with professionalism, compassion and dignity throughout the planning and organization of funeral rituals, both before and after death.

Our experienced team is here to help. Contact us to book an appointment with a funeral director you can trust.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

How do you prepare for the imminent death of a loved one?

As difficult as it may be, it’s essential to ensure that certain arrangements have been made by the person whose death is imminent. While respecting their privacy and decisions, you can ask them if they have planned their funeral pre-arrangements, drawn up a will and formulated any other last wishes. You can also ask if they have chosen their funeral rituals and final resting place.

Can funeral pre-arrangements be done quickly?

Urgel Bourgie / Athos funeral directors can make themselves available quickly to prepare funeral pre-arrangements, adapting to your schedule and availability.

How can I make life easier for my loved ones after my death?

The best way to make life easier for your loved ones after your departure is to plan your funeral pre-arrangements. By doing so, you free them from this administrative and financial burden.

Does Urgel Bourgie / Athos offer grief support?

Urgel Bourgie / Athos offers 3 meetings with a professional psychotherapist free of charge to the families it accompanies. It is also possible to join the Réflexions du Cœur’s “Cœur à Cœur” program.

How can a funeral director help me?

Urgel Bourgie / Athos funeral directors use their expertise to guide families through the various processes that follow the passing of a loved one. Whether before or after the death, our funeral directors will accompany you with empathy, respect and dignity.

What’s the difference between pre-arrangements, last wishes and a will?

Funeral pre-arrangements dictate a person’s mode of disposition, funeral rituals and final resting place. A will is a legal document that records a person’s wishes regarding the distribution of their estate after death. Last wishes refer to all the wishes expressed by a person before their death.