The Collective Season: Death, Estate Planning, Caregiving

Julia goes solo to discuss the difficult topics of death, estate planning, and caregiving, drawing from her own personal experience.

In this special episode, Julia Toothacre is going solo to talk about the difficult topics of death, estate planning, and caregiving. Sharing from her personal experience, the episode is a good starting point for people who haven't considered these topics, but know they need to learn more.

Talking about death is hard. Experiencing the death of a loved one is hard. Discussing the topics that are impacted by death is hard. It's just hard.

But if we don't talk about it, the impact can be immense.

If we don't talk about it, money is wasted and assets are lost.

If we don't talk about it, relationships can be ruined.

If we don't talk about it, the decision-making process is much harder to manage.

Each topic this episode covers will have three areas to consider, discuss, and take action on to prepare yourself and others for the inevitable.

I recommend this episode for all adult ages to listen to, not only to prepare yourself but also to help others in your family prepare.

Here is a brief overview of what is discussed in this episode:

Preparing for Death:

Estate planning is part of preparing for death, but it's a big topic so it's getting its own section.

• Think about long-term care and medical insurance.
• Think about burial options.
• Think about your stuff.

Estate Planning

• If you have assets, you need a trust. Not just a will. A will still sends everything into probate.
• Document everything and make sure a few people know what the plan is or at least where to find the information.
• Have conversations with family about what you want - it helps ease the decision-making process.

Caregiving

• Talk about options as family members age. What is their plan versus what the family can manage.
• If you become a caregiver in any way, go to therapy.
• Prepare for people being in your loved one's home - learn from my mistakes.

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