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Could there be anything more difficult than preparing for a funeral? Certainly, such an end-of-life event is hard to look forward to with any great enthusiasm. And it doesn't matter if you're a member of the bereaved inner circle of close family, a co-worker, neighbor or family friend; preparing for a funeral service takes time and forethought.
If you're preparing to attend a funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life, the following tips and suggestions can certainly help in your funeral preparations. Naturally, if you have any questions about preparing for a funeral, you should call us. We would be pleased to serve you in any way we can.
What Does "Get Prepared" Really Mean?
There's a line in William Shakespeare's play "Henry V", which cuts to the heart of preparedness: "All things are ready, if our mind be so." Readying your mind means strengthening it for what's ahead: all the people, sights, sounds and strong emotions of the day.
In other words, getting ready to attend an end-of-life service is not just a matter of picking out the right clothes to wear; it's also essential to prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for the occasion. After all, you are going to be there to support the bereaved family, as well as the others who attend; and that takes inner strength and emotional fortitude. Never underestimate the importance of your presence there—to everyone in attendance.
To make it simple for you to find the information you need, we've grouped those details together under two headings: Dressing for the Occasion and Getting Physically, Mentally and Emotionally Prepared.
Dressing the Occasion
What is expected of us when attending a funeral service today is far different from the expectations of those living in the Victorian era. According to Alison Petch, a researcher Oxford University, "In those years, black clothing was worn for the funeral and for a year following the death...by close relatives, gradually being replaced by other dark colors."
As we moved into the twentieth century, the Roman and Victorian demands became less strict. "People attending a funeral wore semi-formal clothing, which for adult men would usually mean a suit and tie in dark colors".
Without a doubt, these strict special dress requirements have fallen by the wayside, at least to some degree. Although many websites proclaim that black is the right color to wear for a funeral today, wearing a color other than black isn't seen as disrespectful; but you want to avoid wearing brightly colored or wildly patterned fabrics (unless actually requested to do so by the family). And for women or girls, a modest appearance is preferred.
Certainly, if you've got additional questions about what to wear to a funeral, call us.
Get Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally Prepared
The death of a loved one is among the most stressful experiences we will ever endure. The early days of bereavement, are a time of frayed nerves, when emotions run high and hours of restful sleep are hard to find. These difficult days are then followed by the funeral service (where, even though you're grief stricken, you're expected to perform with some social grace). How can you possibly survive; or better yet thrive, during such trials as these? Here are some suggestions we believe you'll find valuable.
Maintain a state of "mindful awareness."
The tendency when something bad happens to us, like the death of a loved one, is to detach from our physical, emotional and social selves. To "get numb, and stay that way" - but this effort to separate ourselves from what's happening isn't always in our best interest. Instead, you should seek to be "mindful": to keep your awareness on the present moment (not the past, and certainly not the future); all the while acknowledging (and accepting) your feelings, thoughts, and bodily reactions to your loss. Only then can you, in the words of Reinhold Niebuhr's Serenity Prayer, accept the things that cannot be changed, have the courage to change the things which can (and should) be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other. Certainly, you cannot change the fact your loved one has died; but you can change (at least to some degree) the way you react to the loss—and that takes a certain sense of mindful self-awareness.
Do everything you can to stay physically healthy.
The list of physical symptoms of grief is long: fatigue, body aches and pains, loss or change of appetite, shortness of breath, digestive issues, feelings of heaviness, and tightness in your throat or chest. When faced with an onslaught of physical symptoms like these, it's hard to know exactly how to deal with them. The first step is to recognize and name what your body is experiencing. Only then can you do something to change the way you're reacting to the loss. During these days before the funeral:
Reach out to your support network.
Neighbours, friends and family members can be your lifeline right now—and some of them may even be coming to you right now to see how they can help. Don't turn them away; instead, give them the opportunity to give the gift of service. Allow them to walk this path with you for as long as, and in whatever ways, they can. The same goes for the network of professional caregivers: don't neglect to turn to clergy, your family physician, therapist, or grief counsellor if you feel your bereavement to be more than you can handle (now, or at any time in the future).
Prepare to speak less and listen more.
End-of-life ceremonies (whether a "traditional" funeral, memorial service or celebration of life) offer those gathered the chance to share their feelings, tell stories and take comfort from one another. Don't spend too much time talking, unless it's to share something truly meaningful (about the deceased and your relationship to him or her) with others; instead, be ready to listen with a whole heart. This is a time for respectful interactions with other mourners; a time for focusing on the life of the deceased, and also a time for renewing the ties which brought you all together in the first place.
Let Us Help with Your Preparations
Who better to turn to for assistance in preparing for a funeral? We've got the experience and insights which could make this situation easier for you and those you love. If you have questions about preparing for a funeral service—either as a member of the family or as a guest—we're here to support you in any way we can. We're standing at the ready; simply call us.
Alzheon has reported encouraging results from its Phase 2 trial of ALZ-801, an oral treatment for early Alzheimers disease. The study showed cognitive benefits, a 28% reduction in hippocampal atrophy, and a strong safety profile, particularly for individuals with two copies of the APOE4 gene. With the Phase 3 trial now fully enrolled, topline results are expected in the near future. If successful, ALZ-801 could become the first oral anti-amyloid therapy for high-risk patients. Aqualane is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research and extend our deepest gratitude to all participants whose contributions are shaping the future of Alzheimers treatment.
At The Dubin Center, we often see the strength that blooms when families come together to care for a loved one. One such inspiring duo is Sally and her daughter, Jenna multigenerational caregiving team who have supported each other and grown together through the challenges of dementia caregiving.Sally has been a caregiver for at least four years, navigating the evolving needs of her husband with quiet strength and a fierce commitment to showing up each day. Two years ago, her daughter Jenn moved to Florida to be closerand to help. Since then, the two have become a team, blending perspectives, experiences, and love as they walk the caregiving journey together.When asked what they would say to someone who is unsure about joining a support group or getting involved with The Dubin Center, both women spoke with heartfelt conviction."Definitely come, Sally said. Anyone dealing with this sort of stuff needs support. It saved me.Jenn echoed her mothers words, adding, You are not alone. The support groups can help lift you out of the misery. You can give advice and get advice. Its a safe spaceand comforting knowing others understand.Caregiving across generations isnt always easy, but it opens the door for powerful lessons.When asked what younger and older generations can learn from each other, Sally emphasized patiencenoting that age often brings the ability to let go of the small things and focus on what really matters. Jenn reflected on the importance of respect, independence, and dignity, which shes seen modeled by her mom.So, what advice do they have for other families navigating caregiving across generations?Find support, and dont do it alone, Sally advised. Let your family know whats going on and ask for help when you need it.Jenn added, Being open, honest, patient, and kind are the most important. Dont judge, and find a middle ground to work together.Thank you, Sally and Jenn, for your inspiring words! Whether you have family to lean on or not, their words are a reminder that caregiving doesnt have to be a solitary journey. If you or someone you know is caregiving across generations or by themself, reach out. Whether it's joining a support group or simply asking questions, The Dubin Center is here for you!
As we mark Womens History Month 2025, TravelPulse is once again taking a moment to acknowledge the substantial contributions and innovations of women in the travel industry.Its hardly an overstatement to say that women play a critical role in travel and tourism, both locally and globally.The latest available data from the World Travel & Tourism Council shows that women make up nearly 40 percent of the industry. That translates to about 48 million women working in what is now the worlds ninth largest industry.Among these women are scores of trailblazers, visionaries and fearless go-getters who have set their sights on making a difference for others or for the world (or both) and are doing so in their own unique way. They are entrepreneurs, they are corporate titans, they are passionate environmentalists and they are leaders of some of the travel industrys largest brands, businesses and trade groups.This is TravelPulses fifth annual list of influential women in travel, and each year, it is a privilege reviewing the bold things that women in travel are accomplishing. The 2025 class of influential leaders makes clear that women continue to be a force to be reckoned with, even during this fraught time in our history.Women continue to bring unique approaches to addressing and resolving many of the daunting challenges facing the industry and the world at large, including finding ways to make travel more sustainable, inclusive, accessible, thoughtful, and beneficial for stakeholders at all levels.At TravelPulses request, each of the 20 women being honored this year (who were all nominated by industry peers) shared a few career accomplishments theyre most proud of, as well as thoughts on what motivates them. Their answers are a compelling and inspirational read.Heres a closer look at each of the 2025 winners and the forces that drive them.Kerri Johnson, Founder, GOMO TravelAs the founder of GOMO Travel, Kerri Johnson is transforming the way people with mobility challenges, medical conditions, or other travel limitations experience the world. A medical travel assistance agency, GOMOs medical travel companions ensure that travelers get where they need to go with safety.The assistance of GOMO companions is available whether someone has mobility issues, suffers from anxiety, or requires medical assistance.Johnsons efforts through GOMO prioritize inclusivity, ensuring every traveler no matter their circumstances receives personalized support, from booking accessible accommodations to navigating unexpected disruptions.Q: What motivates you to do what you do each day?I have a nursing background and have always been sensitive to peoples feelings and needs, says Johnson. As I have grown and matured, I have become a staunch advocate for those less fortunate. I start my day with my alarm of Andy Williams song The Impossible Dream.This is a daily reminder to accomplish my goal of alleviating fear, isolationism, andexclusion experienced by many would-be travelers, says Johnson. At GOMO Travel, we strive to make their dreams possible.Q: What are your hopes and goals related to your specific area of work and the impact youd like to have on the travel industry?We feel everyone should be free to travel on their own terms, whatever that individuallymeans for them, says Johnson. Our hope is to normalize assisted travel across the globe so they will know that resources like ours exist. Uber did not happen overnight, and we utilize every day to build our network to achieve our goal of one day becoming the Uber of assisted travel.
We are not your traditional funeral home. We are independently owned and family operated, with three generations working together. We don't have large visitation rooms and chapels as we feel these settings don't hold any special importance or meaning to families. We do not feel the need to replicate what already exists in our community. Our goal is to remain right-sized, offer simple options, and do our very best to keep our costs down so that we can pass savings on to the families we serve.A traditional funeral home is not the most comfortable setting for a visitation, funeral service, or remembrance of life event. Most families prefer a venue that holds special meaning and provides solace. At Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services, we encourage you to use your own church or fellowship hall for whatever type of reception you choose. Or if you like, we can help you select a beautiful, tranquil setting in our Southwest Florida community.Please know when you entrust us with the care of your loved one, all of our preparations and cremation services are done within our facility, under our oversight, and according to our high standards of quality.Please see our online pricing for funeral and cremation plans. We hope Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services will be your choice when the time comes or when you consider planning ahead.Full-Service Funeral HomeWe strive to provide families of Southwest Florida with the most affordable, personalized memorial options in a caring atmosphere.
We are not your traditional funeral home. We are independently owned and family operated, with three generations working together. We don't have large visitation rooms and chapels as we feel these settings don't hold any special importance or meaning to families. We do not feel the need to replicate what already exists in our community. Our goal is to remain right-sized, offer simple options, and do our very best to keep our costs down so that we can pass savings on to the families we serve.A traditional funeral home is not the most comfortable setting for a visitation, funeral service, or remembrance of life event. Most families prefer a venue that holds special meaning and provides solace. At Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services, we encourage you to use your own church or fellowship hall for whatever type of reception you choose. Or if you like, we can help you select a beautiful, tranquil setting in our Southwest Florida community.Please know when you entrust us with the care of your loved one, all of our preparations and cremation services are done within our facility, under our oversight, and according to our high standards of quality.Please see our online pricing for funeral and cremation plans. We hope Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services will be your choice when the time comes or when you consider planning ahead.Full-Service Funeral HomeWe strive to provide families of Southwest Florida with the most affordable, personalized memorial options in a caring atmosphere.
We are not your traditional funeral home. We are independently owned and family operated, with three generations working together. We don't have large visitation rooms and chapels as we feel these settings don't hold any special importance or meaning to families. We do not feel the need to replicate what already exists in our community. Our goal is to remain right-sized, offer simple options, and do our very best to keep our costs down so that we can pass savings on to the families we serve.A traditional funeral home is not the most comfortable setting for a visitation, funeral service, or remembrance of life event. Most families prefer a venue that holds special meaning and provides solace. At Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services, we encourage you to use your own church or fellowship hall for whatever type of reception you choose. Or if you like, we can help you select a beautiful, tranquil setting in our Southwest Florida community.Please know when you entrust us with the care of your loved one, all of our preparations and cremation services are done within our facility, under our oversight, and according to our high standards of quality.Please see our online pricing for funeral and cremation plans. We hope Legacy Options Funeral and Cremation Services will be your choice when the time comes or when you consider planning ahead.Full-Service Funeral HomeWe strive to provide families of Southwest Florida with the most affordable, personalized memorial options in a caring atmosphere.