Why We Need Funerals

There are people who declare that they don't want their families and friends to have a funeral for them when they die. "Just cremate me," they say. "I don't want any fuss."

How to Pre-Plan a Funeral

Planning your own funeral may not be easy, but deciding your funeral arrangements in advance can give peace of mind to your family when the time comes. Learn why funeral pre-planning is helpful, then use our detailed checklist to guide you through the steps of pre-planning a funeral. 

What It's Like When Your Parents Pre-Plan Their Funerals

Mom and Dad wanted to have the talk. Here's what happened when we sat down.

End-of-Life Signs and Symptoms

When someone is approaching death, especially an elderly person or someone with a terminal illness, their body and behavior go through a number of changes. Recognizing these changes can help you understand your loved one's journey as their life comes to an end.

Palliative Care vs. Hospice: What's the Difference?

Palliative care and hospice are both prescribed to provide comfort and relief to someone who is suffering from an illness or medical condition. But they're not the same thing. 

How to Find the Best Burial Insurance Policy

What final expenses does burial insurance cover? And is funeral insurance right for you?

What Is the Difference Between a Coffin and a Casket?

Selecting a coffin or casket is an important choice to make in regard to funeral planning. The difference between a coffin and casket is in the design.

How to Choose a Pallbearer

Serving as pallbearer is a position of honor. Here are tips on who to ask.

What Does Next of Kin Mean?

In general, next of kin means one's closest living blood relatives. The term has important legal meaning in regard to inheritance rights and medical decisions.

What Is a Living Will or DNR Order?

A living will is a document you can create that details what lifesaving medical procedures you do or don't want performed on you in the event of your terminal illness or injury. It's used when you are unable to speak your wishes.

Luke Perry Planned Ahead Smartly — Just In Case

We don't have to be rich to protect our families with advance preparation.

Take the Time to Talk

For most of us, talking about end-of-life issues with loved ones isn’t easy. But it can be a rich and rewarding experience that connects families and strengthens relationships.

Wishes Granted at the End of Life

If you're touched by the mission of Make-a-Wish, we think you'll appreciate Twilight Wish Foundation, making dreams come true for elders nearing the end of life.

What Really Matters at the End of Life?

Palliative care doctor BJ Miller shares inspirational insights about end-of-life care in this TED Talk.

How to Write a Living Will

Your living will is the final word if you are unable to communicate a choice due to illness or injury.

Terminally Ill Death-with-Dignity Advocate Ends Own Life

Brittany Maynard made news with plans to end her life, due to a terminal illness Nov. 1. She was back in the news with the announcement Oct. 24 that she has completed her bucket list.