Receiving a tough medical diagnosis can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. Yet, amidst the stress and uncertainty, it is important to ensure that your financial and healthcare wishes are clearly defined and legally documented. Estate planning after a serious diagnosis can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones, as engaging in this effort can help to ensure that your affairs are in order in accordance with your values and that your wishes are respected as your situation evolves.
Estate planning is important for all legally-independent adults, but it is often especially important after an adult is informed that their body is being affected by a serious diagnosis. If you are navigating this situation, know that proper planning can help to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes when you’re gone, that healthcare decisions are made in line with your preferences, etc. Without a solid estate plan, you and your loved ones may face additional stress and legal complications during an already challenging time.
Getting started
It isn’t easy to pour effort into the act of estate planning when you’re injured, ill or both. Thankfully, you can seek personalized legal guidance at any time so that you don’t have to navigate the technical, administrative and legal challenges of this process alone. Your primary job is to consider what you want. That way, you can convey your wishes to your legal team to be formalized.
You’ll want to think about how you’d like your assets, digital footprint and sentimental property managed in the event of incapacitation or death. You’ll also want to consider your wishes for medical care, who you’d like to make decisions on your behalf if you’re incapacitated, etc. This isn’t going to be an easy undertaking, but it’s going to be important for your future well-being, your legacy and your loved ones.