By Tenielle Shallman, Manager of Central Planning, Wealth Enhancement Group

Planning for end of life can be a very emotional experience. As you begin to make plans, consider the following:

Be sure to involve your loved ones. Discuss your wishes and desires that you may have if medical decisions must be made, if there are specific arrangements you or your loved one would like for your funeral as well as other requests you or your loved ones may have.

Consider planning for future transfers through the preparation of documents, such as wills, trusts and powers of attorney. These documents implement the plan by arranging, in writing, the future financial affairs of the individual. Also, the use of a health care directive can provide instructions for medical care and life support in the event you are incapacitated. Be sure that a copy of your health care directive is included with your medical records. Also, update your health care directive document regularly. Not only will a recent reaffirmation of your wishes carry extra weight with doctors, hospitals and judges, but it will also allow you to reconsider your position. Please discuss with your attorney if a health care directive is appropriate for your situation.

Consider the use of a preplanned funeral. This involves working with a funeral professional to discuss and arrange all of the details of your funeral in advance. It is important, however, that you involve your family in the prearrangement process. Because funerals are an important part of the grieving process, you will want to be sure that they are allowed to give their input so that the funeral will be meaningful to them.

If you set aside money or life insurance for your funeral expenses, be sure to put it in a trust to safeguard the funds. This will ensure that the money is protected from lawsuits and bankruptcy, among other things.