Myths & Misconceptions

Misconceptions around End-of-Life Planning often arise because of our values, beliefs and community influences. By identifying the myth and/or misconception, opening our minds and our hearts to additional information that may not have been available at the time of developing a belief, it is possible to understand the process better, quieten fears, gain support and create a meaningful End-of-Life plan that suits our needs and situation.

Here are a few myths and misconceptions to get you started. But don’t stop there, write down your own then research it to see if you can confirm the facts. If you cannot, let that myth go.

Cultural Taboos: In many cultures, death and discussing end-of-life matters are considered taboo subjects. This avoidance can lead to a lack of understanding and misinformation about the importance and benefits of planning ahead.

Fear of Mortality:

Facing our own mortality is challenging for most people. It can be uncomfortable to think about and confront the fact that our lives will inevitably come to an end. As a result, it becomes easier to avoid the topic altogether, perpetuating the myths and fears surrounding end-of-life planning.

Lack of Education:

End-of-life planning is not a topic widely taught or discussed in formal education or society. Without proper education and awareness, misconceptions can arise, further fueling the myths surrounding this topic.

Media and Entertainment Influence:

Movies, TV shows, and books often portray end-of-life planning as distressing or dramatic events, reinforcing the misconception that it is a depressing or morbid topic. These portrayals can contribute to people’s reluctance to engage in discussions or take action towards end-of-life planning.

Stigma Around Aging and Illness:

Society often emphasizes youth and vitality, making it difficult for individuals to acknowledge and plan for the later stages of life. The stigma around aging and illness can lead to denial or procrastination when it comes to end-of-life planning.

Complex Legal and Financial Terminology:

The legal and financial aspects of end-of-life planning can seem overwhelming and confusing. The complexity of terminology and processes may discourage individuals from seeking accurate information or taking action.

By speaking to a suitably qualified Estate Lawyer, many of the terms and misconceptions can be explained in simple language that you can work with.

Examples:

Fear: End-of-life planning is morbid and depressing.

Truth: While contemplating our mortality can be uncomfortable, end-of-life planning is an essential process that ensures our wishes are respected and burdens are minimized for our loved ones. It’s an act of love and consideration towards ourselves and those we care about.

Myth: Planning for the future means I am inviting death.

Truth: End-of-life planning is not inviting death, but rather embracing the reality that it is a natural part of life. By preparing in advance, we can have a say in our own healthcare, financial matters, and leave behind a legacy that reflects our values and desires.

Fear: I am too young or healthy to worry about end-of-life planning.

Truth: No one can predict when unforeseen events may occur. By planning ahead, regardless of age or health, we give ourselves the power to make informed decisions and alleviate stress for our loved ones during challenging times.

Myth: My family will know and do what’s best for me.

Truth: While our loved ones generally have good intentions, they may not know our exact wishes or understand the tough choices that may need to be made. By documenting our preferences clearly, we can ensure our decisions are aligned with our desires and relieve family members of the burden of making assumptions.

Fear: End-of-life planning is expensive and complicated.

Truth: End-of-life planning can be as simple or complex as you make it. While legal documents like wills and advance directives may require professional assistance, there are also many free or low-cost resources available. The peace of mind and protection gained through proper planning far outweigh any associated costs.

Remember, these fears, myths and misconceptions often stem from a lack of understanding or misinformation. By recognizing and addressing them, we can approach end-of-life planning with clarity and ensure that our wishes are respected and honored.

Here are a few commonly held myths and misconceptions around End-of-Life Planning. Take a moment to think about any other ones you may have heard and jot them down. Remember, all it takes is common sense to debunk common myths and misconceptions, so think about the statement from a logical perspective, if it doesn’t pass the litmus test… debunk it.

Commonly held myths:

I am too young to make end-of-life plans

End-of-Life Planning is for people with life-limiting or terminal diseases

End-of-Life Planning is just about writing a Legal Will

End-of-life Planning is really all about finances

I don’t have enough assets to justify creating a Will or End-of-Life Plan

If I have a will, my family will automatically know my wishes

I don’t need an Advanced Care Directive because I am not sick now, and my family will just know what is best for me, what I want

My family will always work nicely together and deal with everything in a measured, logical way

My family will just brush me off when I start talking about my final wishes

End-of-Life Planning is depressing & morbid, it is all about dying

People will think I’ve lost the plot or that I am dying

I’m on my own with all of this and don’t know where to start

It is not really up to me, it is up to the family to decide what is best

An End-of-Life Plan is about being a control freak – not letting go