Let's be honest – none of us like to think about death. We joke about where we spread our axis or who will inherit the Family Monopoly Board, but when it comes to the serious things – wills, pensions and funeral plans – most of us postpone it.
While a quarter of us think of our death every week, less than half of us did something about it.
But ignoring it will not make it disappear, and not planning your family can leave an overwhelming burden when the time comes.
That is why Peter Thornton, former head of coroner of England and Wales, has written a no-nonsense guide to get your affairs in order-and number one advice? Make a 'terror town'.
Thornton, 78, has had to deal with the aftermath of early dead for years. He knows better than most of the sudden tragedies can have loved ones climb to essential paperwork and struggling to fulfill the last wishes.
His solution? A simple, organized file with all the vital information that your family needs.
“It's not about being morbid,” he told the Times, “it's about being practical. If you love your family, help them when they need it the most. '
So what exactly should be in this file? Thornton's advice is simple – inserted as much as possible, work it regularly and tell someone where it can be found.
Peter Thornton (above), former head of coroner of England and Wales, has written a no-nonsense guide to get your business in order
While a quarter of the British think of their mortality every week, less than half did something about it (shares)
Here is his essential checklist:
- A copy of your will
- Birth certificate, marriage certificate
- NHS -Card, NHS number
- GP contact data
- Family and persons charged (names, addresses, etc.)
- Ni and tax reference numbers
- Details of every accountant, Financial Advisor, Platicitor for Inheritance Law
- Bank account details
- Insurance policies, pension
- List of income, savings
- List of regular expenses, debts
- Characteristic
- Other assets, including car
- Any prior decision (wants to live)
- Every registered permanent power of attorney
- Your wishes for funeral or cremation
- Your other wishes (if present) for the funeral
- Any other reasonable wishes
- A short history of your life and family (if you want)
- Digital information: usernames and passwords (or where to be found)
Thornton warns to leave it late and explains that many people only start thinking about their last years when they are already confronted with health struggle.
“The best time to do this is in the 50s or early 60s – before things get too difficult,” he said.
He explained: 'There will sometimes be an inheritance tax, you can own a house, the difference between being married or not can be huge, especially if there are children.
“You can't stop people who challenge testaments if there are several, complicated marriages, but it makes it double important to resolve your wishes before you go.”
Apart from the legal aspects, it ensures to put your affairs in order that your loved ones do not stay behind in search of vital information in a time of emotional need.
'If you put your affairs in order and leave a list of requests, this is a way to have a voice if you are unable to get or die. You can say how you want to treat your health problems and your finances are arranged at the end. It should give you comfort, “Thornton noted.
He also encouraged the elderly to stay independent for as long as possible, to stay active, to manage their own finances and to maintain social connections (shares)
He also encouraged older people to stay independent for as long as possible, stay active, manage their own finances and maintain social connections: 'I play my guitar, I pick up the German and I work. I have six part -time jobs. '
But he warns that vulnerability can come quickly: 'Three quarters of those of more than 75 have at least two long -term medical conditions. Things can happen to us at any time, so just do it if you have a spain. '
One of the biggest concerns that people have about later life is the fear of suffering in their last months.
'A right to die can take years, it is not necessarily just around the corner. I support it in theory, but better to look at hospices now. “He recommended.
He also believes that elderly people need more protection: “We must protect against retired poverty, reform the care system, encourage the elderly to have a more active and social life, avoid digital exclusion and remain positive and optimistic.”
Death can be inevitable, but chaos does not have to be. By taking simple steps now, you can ensure that your wishes are known, your finances are in order and your loved ones are saved unnecessary stress.
As Thornton says: 'You can just say, it will be what it will be – but that should be an active choice. You may even find it strangely satisfactory to get everything in order. '
So, the next time you are tempted to watch another TV series, why wouldn't you take an hour to start your terror file instead? It is perhaps the most attentive one you ever do for your loved ones.
