Do You Know What to do When Someone Dies
Jolene L. DeVries, Attorney
Mar 29, 2010
Colorado - Southern Colorado
Email US
Click to Email Us
At the time of death:
Look through the decedents personal papers for burial information (i.e. funeral plan or written instructions).
Contact a funeral home to arrange the pick up of the decedent and for further arrangements such as services, location, military involvement, club or organization involvement, the obituary, burial plots and headstones.
Order death certificates from the funeral home. A good rule of thumb for the number of Death Certificates to order is one each for every financial institution, vehicle, land, life insurance policy or other assets and then two extra.
After funeral arrangements have been made, begin contacting the following individuals:
Police to check on the decedents home An attorney to obtain information on how to deal with the decedents assets and debts Financial and banking institutions to obtain information on accounts, investments and whether or not the decedent maintained a safe deposit box Insurance agents regarding claim forms Social Security/Veterans Affairs and pension agencies regarding stop payments and possible benefits Utility companies to change or stop services Newspaper(s) to stop services Post Office to forward mail
What documents to look for:
Funeral/Burial plan Will an heir can request a bank to conduct a will search in a safety deposit box. If a will is found, the bank official must keep the will and deposit it with the Court Life insurance policies Financial statements from banks, stock brokerage firms and financial advisors Deed(s) and titles to vehicles
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jolene DeVries, Attorney at Law. For further information she can be reached at 719-275-4424
Other Articles You May Like
Understanding Hospice Care in Western Slope, Colorado: Compassionate Support for Families
When faced with the difficult decision of caring for a loved one at the end of their life, many families in Western Slope, Colorado, turn to hospice care for comfort and support. Hospice care is designed to provide compassionate, specialized care for individuals in the final stages of a terminal illness. This service offers not only physical care but also emotional, spiritual, and psychological support for both patients and their families.What is Hospice Care?Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with a terminal illness rather than attempting to cure the illness. The goal of hospice is to ensure comfort, manage symptoms, and provide dignity for individuals at the end of life. The care team often includes doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, chaplains, and trained volunteers.Unlike traditional medical treatments aimed at curing an illness, hospice care shifts the focus toward relief from pain and symptoms, allowing patients to live their final days in comfort and peace. Hospice can be provided at home, in a hospice facility, or within a hospital setting, depending on the patient's needs.Why Choose Hospice Care?Hospice care offers numerous benefits, especially for families seeking a holistic approach to end-of-life care. Some key advantages include: Comfort and Pain Relief: Hospice care ensures that patients are as comfortable as possible, providing pain relief through medications and alternative therapies. Emotional Support: Beyond physical care, hospice provides counseling and emotional support for patients and their families, addressing the mental and emotional toll of end-of-life issues. Spiritual Care: Hospice respects the spiritual beliefs of individuals and their families, offering spiritual support as part of holistic care. Care for the Family: The care team supports not only the patient but also the family, offering respite, counseling, and guidance on how to cope with the transition. 24/7 Care Availability: Hospice care offers the advantage of being available around the clock, giving families peace of mind knowing support is always accessible. Hospice Care in Western SlopeWestern Slope, Colorado, is home to numerous hospice providers that specialize in delivering personalized care. Whether you are in Grand Junction, Montrose, or another part of this beautiful region, there are hospice services that cater to the specific needs of the community.Many of these providers offer a range of services, including home hospice care, inpatient hospice care, and even pediatric hospice care. In addition to medical care, many hospice programs in Western Slope emphasize providing services that address emotional and spiritual well-being during this sensitive time.For those who need to learn more about available options in Western Slope, the Seniors Blue Book is an excellent resource for finding hospice providers in the area.How to Find Hospice Services in Western SlopeWhen considering hospice care, its important to explore all the options available to ensure that your loved ones needs are met. The Seniors Blue Book offers a comprehensive directory of trusted hospice providers in the Western Slope region, providing essential information about the services available.You can explore local providers and find detailed information on available services by visiting our directory:Explore hospice care options in Western SlopeDiscover other senior care resources in Western SlopeFinal ThoughtsHospice care is a vital resource for families facing end-of-life decisions. It allows families in Western Slope to ensure that their loved ones receive compassionate care, comfort, and dignity in their final days. By providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support, hospice care offers a holistic approach to managing this challenging time. If you are considering hospice care for a loved one, take the time to explore all the available resources in Western Slope, Colorado, to ensure you choose the best provider for your familys needs.
Understanding Hospice Care in Utah: Support, Compassion, and Dignity at Lifes Final Chapter
When facing the final stages of a serious illness, families in Utah often seek compassionate and expert care that supports both their loved one and the entire family unit. Thats where hospice care becomes an invaluable resource.Hospice services in Utah provide specialized care for individuals who are nearing the end of life. More than just a healthcare service, hospice focuses on comfort, dignity, and emotional supportallowing people to spend their remaining time on their own terms and in peace.What Is Hospice Care?Hospice is a type of end-of-life care for people with terminal illnesses, typically when curative treatment is no longer the focus. Care is centered around comfort, symptom management, emotional support, and quality of life, rather than trying to cure the illness.Care is usually provided wherever the patient calls homewhether thats a private residence, a nursing facility, or an assisted living community. Hospice can also be delivered in dedicated hospice centers for those who require more intensive medical care.Key Services Offered by Hospice Providers in UtahIn Utah, hospice providers follow best practices and compassionate models of care to ensure that patients and families are supported every step of the way. Common services include:Pain and symptom managementMedical equipment and medication deliveryEmotional and spiritual support24/7 on-call nursing assistanceGrief counseling for familiesVolunteer support and companionshipThe care team typically includes physicians, nurses, social workers, spiritual counselors, and trained volunteers who work collaboratively to meet the patients physical and emotional needs.Why Hospice Is Important in UtahUtah has a growing senior population, and with it comes a rising need for holistic care that respects personal wishes at the end of life. Many Utah families value faith, community, and connection, all of which are integral aspects of hospice care.Additionally, many families in Utah appreciate the flexibility and in-home options that hospice offers. These services allow patients to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving professional care that relieves suffering and enhances dignity.Who Qualifies for Hospice Care?Hospice care is typically recommended for individuals with a life expectancy of six months or less, as certified by a physician. This may include individuals with:CancerHeart failureChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)Dementia or Alzheimers diseaseAdvanced kidney or liver diseaseOther terminal conditionsThe goal is not to hasten death or prolong life unnaturallybut to support comfort, peace, and family presence during a deeply personal time.How to Find Hospice Services in UtahIf youre seeking hospice in Utah, its important to explore your options carefully. Every familys needs are unique, and selecting the right hospice provider can make a meaningful difference in your loved ones experience.To browse trusted providers and services in your area, explore these local resources:Utah Home Health Directory Seniors Blue BookUtah Hospice Services DirectoryThese directories offer a neutral, comprehensive list of options across Utah to help families make informed, compassionate choices without the pressure of advertising or sponsorship.Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Hospice ProviderWhen choosing hospice care, ask the following questions:What services are included and what support is offered to families?How quickly can care begin after referral?Are there specialized programs for dementia, veterans, or pediatric care?Is 24/7 support available for emergencies or concerns?How are care plans created and reviewed?Clear communication and a team-oriented approach are essential hallmarks of a quality hospice provider.The Role of Hospice in Supporting FamiliesWhile hospice focuses on the comfort of the patient, it also plays a critical role in supporting caregivers and families. From education and emotional support to grief counseling, hospice helps loved ones feel less alone during one of lifes most difficult journeys.In Utahs close-knit communities, the family-centered nature of hospice resonates deeplyallowing family members to participate in caregiving while still receiving professional backup and respite when needed.Conclusion Choosing hospice care is a deeply personal decisionone that reflects love, compassion, and the desire for dignity in lifes final chapter. For families in Utah, understanding what hospice offers and how to access care can provide peace of mind and much-needed support.
Understanding Hospice Care in Southwest Florida
Compassionate End-of-Life Support for Seniors and Their FamiliesNavigating the final stages of life is never easy, but hospice care provides crucial support, dignity, and comfort during this challenging time. In Southwest Florida, hospice services help families manage end-of-life care with compassion, focusing on improving quality of life rather than prolonging it. Whether you are a caregiver, family member, or someone planning ahead, understanding what hospice care involves can help you make informed and heartfelt decisions. What Is Hospice Care?Hospice care is specialized care designed for individuals facing a life-limiting illness, typically with a prognosis of six months or less. Unlike curative treatments, hospice focuses on palliative carerelieving pain, managing symptoms, and offering emotional and spiritual support for both the patient and their loved ones.Key features of hospice care include:Pain and symptom managementEmotional and spiritual counselingSupport for caregivers and familiesBereavement services24/7 access to care teamsCare is usually provided in the patients home, a hospice facility, or in assisted living or skilled nursing communities, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual. The Importance of Hospice in Southwest FloridaSouthwest Florida is home to a large and growing senior population. With its reputation as a retirement-friendly region, the need for accessible and high-quality end-of-life care is especially relevant.Heres why hospice care plays a vital role in this area:Aging population Many seniors living in Southwest Florida are seeking compassionate, home-based care during their final stages of life.Family-centered approach Hospice helps ease the emotional burden on families by offering comprehensive support services.In-home availability With the goal of honoring patient comfort, hospice services are often delivered in the familiar surroundings of home.These features make hospice a valuable option for seniors and their families who wish to preserve dignity and peace during a difficult time. When Is the Right Time to Consider Hospice?Families often delay considering hospice care due to uncertainty or emotional difficulty. However, the earlier hospice is introduced, the more support it can provide.Some signs that it might be time to explore hospice care include:Frequent hospitalizations or emergency room visitsRapid health decline or increasing symptomsDifficulty with basic daily activitiesPhysician recommendation for comfort-focused careIf you or a loved one is facing a serious illness such as advanced cancer, Alzheimers disease, heart failure, or COPD, speaking with a healthcare provider about hospice options is a wise and compassionate step. How to Find Hospice Providers in Southwest FloridaSelecting a hospice provider requires careful research. Here are a few tips to help guide your search:Confirm that the provider is licensed and Medicare-certifiedAsk about staff experience and 24/7 availabilityUnderstand the full scope of services offeredLook into caregiver support and bereavement programsEvaluate their commitment to patient-centered careTo help you get started, Seniors Blue Book offers a comprehensive, neutral directory of hospice providers in Southwest Florida. Explore Hospice Providers in Southwest Florida Browse All Home Health & Hospice Listings Why Hospice MattersHospice care is not about giving up; it's about prioritizing comfort, connection, and dignity in lifes final chapter. It helps families make the most of the time they have together and ensures that seniors are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.Whether you're planning ahead or navigating a current need, understanding your hospice options in Southwest Florida can make a meaningful difference. Final Thoughts Hospice care offers comfort, dignity, and critical support when it matters most. In a vibrant and senior-focused region like Southwest Florida, access to these services ensures that aging adults and their families are never alone in their journey.
