Losing a loved one is never easy and it can be overwhelming to know what to do in the aftermath of a death. Here are some steps you can take to help you through this difficult time:
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Notify emergency personnel or the deceased's doctor if they were under medical care: If the death occurred at home or in the workplace and no one else was present, you will also need to contact the police before moving the deceased to another location. If the death occurred in a hospital, care facility, or hospice program, the staff will handle the notification of authorities and contact the funeral home if you have provided them with a name.
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Register the death: The next steps involve registering the death, and the process and required documentation will depend on the circumstances. The professionals you have contacted will help you obtain a medical certificate and complete the necessary registration procedures. If you are unsure of what to do or who to notify, don't hesitate to contact a funeral home for assistance.
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Notify friends and relatives: In the first few days after a death, you will want to notify friends and relatives of the passing. If it is too difficult for you to do this, it is okay for a trusted friend to make the call on your behalf.
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Review prearranged plans and meet with a funeral home: Now is also the time to review any prearranged plans or wishes your loved one may have made and meet with the professionals at your chosen funeral home to discuss your options and begin planning the funeral. You may also want to write a death notice or obituary to notify the community of your loved one's passing.
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Seek support: It is important to remember that you have a network of support available to you. Loved ones, neighbors, friends, clergy members, and other trusted members of your community may be willing to help with arrangements, care for children, prepare food, or simply offer a kind word and support.
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Make initial funeral decisions: If your loved one did not make any arrangements beforehand, you will need to make some initial decisions when you meet with the funeral home. These may include whether to embalm the body, whether to purchase a casket, whether to bury or cremate the remains, and what type of funeral or memorial service to plan. If your loved one had a particular religion or cultural background, you may also need to consider whether to follow any specific traditions.
Losing a loved one is never easy, but by following these steps, you can begin to navigate the funeral planning process and take care of the necessary arrangements. Don't hesitate to contact a funeral home for assistance and support during this difficult time. They are here to help you through every step of the process and provide guidance and support during your time of need.
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