Seniors face many similar responsibilities. We need to make decisions about asset allocation and consider care options in case of mental or physical disabilities, or if we want to move to a service-oriented setting like assisted living.
Additionally, there’s the question of what kind of memorial service or funeral one prefers. I recently thought about this, and it turned out to be less simple than I initially believed. As I began to ponder, I realized a memorial service should reflect the person who has passed away. What did I want?
I knew I didn’t want an invitation-only event. I wanted one open to anyone who wished to attend. If affordable, I would provide food and drinks. The idea of my friends sharing a martini seemed fitting and comforting. My service should reflect who I was and how I had lived.
I chose speakers who knew and understood me. My main speaker would be insightful and realistic: his comments would be grounded in his experience with me.
I also decided to write my own obituary. Too often, I saw obituaries that read more like nominations for sainthood than honest summaries of real lives. I knew the important things that had shaped me better than anyone.
I told my wife, Vicki, to make changes as needed. Any program needed to be practical and realistic.
Having things in order is beneficial. When I swing my nine iron towards the green, my mind is clear.