Create your own local business resource list

Planning for the end of one’s life can be a challenging and emotional task. However, creating a comprehensive local business list can greatly assist individuals and their loved ones in navigating practical matters during this crucial time. This article aims to provide a practical guide on compiling a local business list as part of an end-of-life plan, ultimately easing the burden on family members and ensuring a smoother transition.

1. Begin with the essentials:
Start your local business list with essential contacts such as funeral homes, crematoriums, and burial services. Research reputable establishments in your local area and compile their necessary information, including their address, phone number, website, and any additional services they may provide.

2. Legal and financial matters:
Ensure you include contacts for legal professionals, estate planning lawyers, and financial advisors. These individuals can offer guidance on wills, trusts, probate, power of attorney, and other relevant legal and financial matters. Local law firms and estate planning agencies can be an excellent resource for finding experienced professionals.

3. Healthcare providers and medical services:
Include the contact information for healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and hospital networks. Additionally, consider adding details about hospice care providers, home healthcare agencies, and companies that offer medical equipment rentals or purchases. This information can prove invaluable in managing medical needs during end-of-life stages.

4. Aging and senior care resources:
If the end-of-life plan involves care for aging individuals, include a list of local businesses that provide senior care services, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Research each establishment and determine the services they offer, their reputation, and their location.

5. Support services for family members:
Taking care of the emotional and mental well-being of loved ones is crucial during end-of-life planning. Compile a list of mental health professionals, grief counsellors, support groups, and social services available in your community. These resources can provide support and comfort to family members and individuals navigating the grieving process.

6. Financial institutions and insurance providers:
Ensure all relevant banking institutions, financial planners, and insurance providers are included in your local business list. This should encompass banks, credit unions, investment firms, and insurance companies upon which you currently rely. This information helps expedite financial matters and provides a clear overview of assets for settlement purposes.

7. Celebrant and/or End-of-life Specialists:
Whether you are planning a sacred space for the final days or you would like a say in how you are farewelled, you should include a list of local celebrant and end-of-life specialists as well as the services they provided. Pre-planning can be a great source of comfort for you and alleviate stress for your family members.

8. Utilize technology and digital platforms:
Consider leveraging digital platforms such as mobile applications and online directories that aggregate local business information. Such tools can centralize your local business list and make it easily accessible to both you and your loved ones when needed.

Conclusion:
Creating a local business list as part of an end-of-life plan is an essential step towards ensuring a seamless transition for not only yourself but also your loved ones. By including contacts for essential services, legal and financial professionals, healthcare providers, and support networks, the burden faced by family members during an already challenging time can be significantly reduced. Remember to update the list periodically to reflect any changes in the local business landscape. Taking this proactive approach can provide peace of mind, allowing you and your loved ones to focus on what truly matters during these final stages of life.

Click here to download the template to start on your own list.