What Basic "Arrangements" Should a Single Adult Make Sooner Rather than Later?

This is a great question.

In fact, a 2014 study by The Pew Research Center, title A Record Share of Americans Have Never Married, found an interesting societal trend.

Since 1970 there has been a steady increase in the U.S. population demographic of folks who never marry by the time they reach ages 45 to 54.

This topic was taken up recently by Forbes in an article titled "Single People Worry: Who'll Be There For Us?"

Like Eleanor Rigby in famous song by The Beatles, many singles fear dying alone and worry about what, if any, final arrangements would be made at their passing ... let alone who would step in to make them.

As a result, the original article sought the counsel of leading funeral home experts.

Here is a summary of that advice:

Pre-plan the Funeral (or Cremation).

Making your own funeral arrangements sounds like a great idea. Unfortunately, very few people actually follow through.

A 2015 consumer research study found that 69% of adults over the age of 40 said that, while they would prefer to pre-arrange their own service, only 17% had actually made arrangements.

Solution?

You need to set aside time to visit some cemeteries and funeral homes and then discuss planning options and prices.

Discuss Your Last Wishes With Those You Trust.

If you are single and without close relatives, then ask a good friend to help.

Have a serious discussion about how you would like things to go when you die.

If your friend is single too, then perhaps you should agree to reciprocate.

Be Okay with Your Death.

Remember, the great memories of your life are not tied to your final resting place or places (check with state laws when it comes to "scattering" cremains).

If you are a never-married, without-family Baby Boomer, then there is no time like the present to make your own "final arrangements."

After all, no one knows your wishes better than you. 

Remember: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When making your financial, tax and estate plans, do not go it alone. Be sure to engage competent professional counsel.

For more information about estate planning in Overland Park, KS (and throughout the rest of Kansas and Missouri), visit our estate planning website and be sure to subscribe to our complimentary estate planning e-newsletter while you are there.

Reference: Forbes (March 11, 2016) "Single People Worry: Who'll Be There For Us?"