May is host to Hospice and Palliative Care Week and while it’s always a good time to think about getting your affairs in order, let’s take this as an opportunity to discuss the why and the how.

End-of-life planning is not an easy topic to confront, but it is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. In Canada, where healthcare, legal, and financial systems have specific processes and requirements, preparing ahead can ease burdens, reduce stress, and ensure your wishes are respected. Whether you are aging, managing a terminal illness, or simply planning ahead, putting your affairs in order is an act of care and responsibility.

1. Create or Update Your Will

A will is the cornerstone of any end-of-life plan. In Canada, if you die without a will, provincial laws dictate how your assets are distributed—often in ways that may not align with your wishes. Drafting a legal will ensures your estate is passed on according to your intentions, whether to family, friends, or charities. It also allows you to name an executor, the person responsible for managing your estate. Wills can be drafted with the help of a lawyer or using legally recognized online tools, but they must comply with the laws of your province or territory.

2. Assign a Power of Attorney

Power of Attorney (POA) documents are essential for both financial and personal care decisions. A financial POA gives someone the authority to handle your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. A personal care or healthcare POA allows someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. These documents should be completed while you are mentally competent, and the people you appoint should be trustworthy and willing to take on the responsibility.

3. Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning involves discussing and documenting your preferences for medical treatment in case you can’t communicate them yourself. This may include instructions on resuscitation, life support, and palliative care. In Canada, most provinces offer frameworks or forms for creating an advance directive or representation agreement. Sharing your wishes with family and healthcare providers is key to ensuring they are followed.

4. Organize Your Financial Information

Compile a clear, updated list of all financial assets, including bank accounts, insurance policies, pensions, investments, and debts. Make sure your executor knows where to find this information. Review your beneficiaries on registered accounts (RRSPs, TFSAs, life insurance), as these typically bypass the will and go directly to the named individuals.

5. Consider Funeral Planning

Pre-arranging your funeral or memorial service can reduce emotional and financial stress on your family. In Canada, many funeral homes offer pre-planning and pre-payment options. You can specify preferences for burial, cremation, religious rites, and more. Document these wishes in writing and share them with your family or executor.

6. Communicate Openly

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of end-of-life planning is communication. Talk to your loved ones about your decisions and where to find your documents. This helps prevent confusion, conflict, and surprises during a difficult time.

Taking these steps ensures your affairs are in order and your wishes are known. In doing so, you leave a legacy of clarity, compassion, and care. It’s never too early to plan—only too late.