END OF LIFE PLANNING: A Nontraditional, But Loving Graduation Gift
We are in the midst of graduation season here in the United States. Some littles are graduating from kindergarten and moving into the big world of elementary school. Others are taking steps into adulthood and moving away from a life they’ve always known - a structured, daily education. As parents or loved ones we celebrate these milestones, not just for the big next steps, but for all the work and effort that was put in to get to this moment.
For many parents and caregivers, this moment has been in the works since the child's birth. It was then that parents or grandparents set up a college fund and began thinking ahead. Thinking of the support that their children would need during the big transition to college. Knowing that the money would help with books and tuition, but it would also provide comfort to the children and parents as they all experienced a large life change.
Why This Matters Now
College funds and 529’s are a great way to think ahead for your children’s security, but what about beyond the college experience? Some parents are able to set aside funds for weddings or home purchases, another way to support their children during big life transitions. Take a moment to think beyond all of those celebratory moments and reflect on what will be one of the biggest changes for your children: the loss of their parents.
While it is a topic many don’t want to think about, it needs just as much thought as some of the smaller moments in a child’s life. Taking the time now to plan for your end of life is one of the best gifts you can give your child.
Your Children Benefit From Your End of Life Planning Because:
They know your wishes.
This gives them the confidence to see those wishes through.
It sets them up well for healthy grief and life after inevitable loss.
Their financial burdens are significantly reduced.
It makes some of the difficult logistics easier to work through.
Most importantly, it allows you to enjoy the graduations and celebrations with your children now, knowing that you have taken care of the big decisions for the future.
At ELDR we honor the importance of preparing for the end of life by treating all elements with care, respecting the nuance of individual experiences, and meeting every person’s unique story with empathy. Learn more about our approach here, or find an ELDR here today to support you through your end of life planning.
