Family

Time to die? (and pay for it!)

assisted death, death, end of life planning, Family, medical

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, soon to be debated in the UK Parliament, aims to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill individuals who meet certain criteria. While the Bill’s proponents argue it offers dignity and autonomy at the end of life, the provisions risk imposing unintended challenges—particularly regarding the processes of medical and legal evaluation required for applicants. These procedural elements could lead to significant delays and financial burdens, potentially undermining the very dignity and autonomy the Bill seeks to protect.

1. The Risk of Procedural Delays

One of the key provisions of the Bill involves thorough medical and legal evaluations to ensure that applicants are eligible for assisted dying. This process, while essential to prevent abuse or coercion, may inadvertently cause significant delays. Terminally ill patients often face unpredictable and rapidly progressing illnesses. Extended waiting times for evaluation could mean that patients are left in prolonged suffering or miss the window where they can make autonomous decisions.

Delays may arise from several factors:

  • Shortage of qualified evaluators: The Bill will require assessments by multiple medical professionals, including specialists in the patient’s condition and possibly mental health experts to rule out impaired decision-making capacity. In regions with limited access to specialists, obtaining these evaluations could take weeks or months.
  • Backlogs in legal processes: Legal oversight to ensure compliance with the law might be subject to delays, particularly in jurisdictions already experiencing strain on court or administrative systems.
  • Disputes and appeals: Family disagreements or uncertainties over eligibility may lead to additional bureaucratic or judicial reviews, further extending the timeline.

These delays could exacerbate the suffering of patients seeking a swift and compassionate resolution to their circumstances.

2. Financial Burdens of Compliance

The financial implications of the Bill’s provisions are another significant concern. Terminally ill individuals and their families already face substantial medical costs, and the requirement for extensive medical and legal reviews could impose additional financial strain. Some key considerations include:

  • Medical evaluation costs: Specialists, especially those in private practice, often charge high fees for consultations and assessments. In areas with limited NHS resources, patients might have no choice but to turn to costly private care to meet the eligibility requirements.
  • Legal representation and fees: Engaging lawyers to navigate the procedural complexities, ensure proper documentation, and represent the patient in any legal disputes will add another layer of expense.
  • Travel and accommodation expenses: For individuals in rural or underserved areas, traveling to access qualified medical and legal professionals could present a further financial hurdle.

Such costs could render the option of assisted dying inaccessible to individuals from lower-income backgrounds, creating inequities in who can realistically benefit from the legislation.

3. Impact on Vulnerable Groups

The delays and costs embedded in the Bill’s provisions may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, marginalized communities, or remote locations. These individuals may face systemic barriers to accessing the resources needed for evaluation, potentially leaving them trapped in a cycle of suffering without the relief promised by the Bill.

Furthermore, the stress of navigating these complex processes could exacerbate the emotional and psychological toll on patients and their families. For some, the financial and procedural challenges may lead to the perception that the option of assisted dying is more of a theoretical right than a practical one.

4. Potential Solutions

To address these shortcomings, the Bill could incorporate mechanisms to mitigate delays and costs:

  • Streamlining evaluation procedures: Establishing clear timelines for evaluations and creating a centralized panel of qualified professionals could reduce bottlenecks.
  • Public funding support: Providing NHS coverage for the necessary evaluations and legal processes would ensure equitable access.
  • Expanding access to specialists: Training additional medical and legal professionals to meet the anticipated demand could help prevent shortages.
  • Simplifying legal oversight: Implementing standardized forms and processes might reduce the need for prolonged legal involvement.

Conclusion

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill represents  However, without careful consideration of the potential delays and costs associated with its provisions, the legislation risks failing those it aims to serve. Ensuring timely, affordable access to the necessary evaluations and safeguards is essential to prevent inequities and unnecessary suffering. As Parliament debates the Bill, addressing these practical shortcomings must be a priority to create a system that truly delivers compassionate and equitable end-of-life care.

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Robotics aiding the elderly

care, end of life planning, Family, People, welfare

Welcome to the My Life My Word podcast, where we dive deep into the many issues that confront us in older age living. I’m your host, Paul Murden and today, we’re considering the help we might possibly get from robots in later life

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Medical Insurance for the Elderly

end of life planning, Family, health, insurance, medical, Uncategorised, welfare

Read here:

Navigating the medical insurance landscape can be a daunting task, especially for the elderly in the UK.

However, with the right knowledge and guidance, you can ensure that you or your loved ones have access to quality healthcare in their later years.

Here are some helpful tips to help you navigate the world of medical insurance for the elderly.
Research different insurance providers:

Take the time to research and compare different insurance providers in the UK.

Look for those that specialize in healthcare coverage for the elderly and have a good reputation in the industry.

Consider factors such as coverage options, premiums, deductibles, and customer reviews.

Understand your needs: Assess your specific healthcare needs and consider any pre-existing conditions or ongoing medical treatments.

This will help you determine the type and level of coverage you require.

Some insurance plans may offer specialized coverage for certain conditions or treatments, so be sure to inquire about these options.

Consult with an insurance advisor: If you find the process overwhelming or confusing, consider seeking advice from an insurance advisor who specializes in coverage for the elderly. They can help guide you through the options available, explain complex terms, and assist in finding the best policy to suit your needs and budget.

Review the coverage details: Carefully review the coverage details and any limitations or exclusions associated with the insurance policy.

Look for coverage of essential medical services, hospital stays, prescription medications, and specialist consultations.

Be aware of any waiting periods or restrictions that may apply.
Understand the costs: In addition to the monthly premiums, it’s important to understand other costs associated with the insurance policy, such as deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket limits.

Consider your budget and ensure that the policy you choose provides the right balance between coverage and affordability.

Take advantage of preventive care benefits: Many insurance plans offer preventive care benefits, such as regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations.

These services can help maintain good health and catch any potential issues early on. Be sure to take advantage of these benefits to promote overall well-being.

By following these tips, you can navigate the medical insurance landscape for the elderly in the UK with confidence.

Medical Insurance for the Elderly Read More »

Last Christmas I gave you my heart………….

end of life planning, Family, Funeral Planning, organ donation, People, Power-of-Attorney, Wills

The very next day you gave it to someone who needed it

Organ donation is a profound act that saves lives and offers hope to those in need of transplants. In the UK, the need for donors is significant, but there’s more to consider in securing a legacy of giving beyond just organ donation.  We just don’t know how to do it!

Understanding the significance of organ donation, while also recognizing the importance of making a will and establishing a lasting power of attorney, holds the key to shaping a future that leaves a lasting impact.

Organ Donation: A Gift of Life

Organ donation is about giving someone a chance at life. It’s about donating organs, tissues, and potentially saving up to nine lives or improving many others. In the UK, the demand for organs surpasses the supply, leaving thousands waiting for a second chance. Registering as an organ donor is a significant step toward leaving behind a legacy of generosity.

Planning Ahead: Making a Will

Creating a will is an essential part of planning for the future. A will outlines how you want your assets to be distributed and ensures your wishes are followed after you’re gone. It’s not just for the wealthy; anyone who wants to have a say in what happens to their belongings and to support loved ones should consider making a will. It provides peace of mind and clarity during a difficult time.

Establishing a Lasting Power of Attorney

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that enables you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so due to illness or incapacity. There are two types: one for health and welfare decisions and another for financial decisions. Having an LPA in place ensures that your wishes are respected and that someone you trust can manage your affairs should you become unable to do so. (click on image)

The Impact of Planning Ahead and Organ Donation

Combining the act of organ donation with making a will and establishing an LPA amplifies the impact of your generosity. While organ donation saves lives, having a will and an LPA in place ensures that your wishes are fulfilled and your loved ones are cared for when you’re no longer able to do so yourself.

Conclusion: Building a Legacy of Compassion and Preparedness

Organ donation, making a will, and establishing an LPA are interconnected acts of kindness and responsibility. By embracing organ donation and planning for the future, individuals can leave behind a legacy that not only saves lives but also ensures their wishes are respected and their loved ones cared for.

In the UK, registering as an organ donor, making a will, and establishing an LPA are proactive steps toward making a difference and securing a future that reflects compassion, generosity, and preparedness. Together, let’s embrace the power of giving and planning for a better tomorrow.

You can sort it all out here (click) easily and at low cost.

What else could you do for Christmas?

Get it sorted

 

 
 
 

Last Christmas I gave you my heart…………. Read More »

Unveiling Hidden Treasures:

Data Storage, Family, Finance, insurance, People, Possesions, Power-of-Attorney

How to Find Lost Bank Accounts and Insurance Policies in the UK

In our fast-paced lives, it is not uncommon to lose track of financial assets or forget about insurance policies. Whether due to a change in residence, switching banks, or simply overlooking paperwork, many individuals in the UK may have forgotten about dormant bank accounts or overlooked insurance policies.

 Alternatively, you may be an Executor or Attorney and need to find out about possible assets so that you can manage an estate

The good news is that these lost treasures might not be gone forever—they could be waiting to be rediscovered. Click here to find out how not to lose yours 

Unearthing Forgotten Bank Accounts

According to recent estimates, billions of pounds lie unclaimed in dormant bank accounts across the United Kingdom. These accounts become dormant when they remain untouched or inactive for an extended period, typically around 15 years. If you suspect you might have forgotten about an account, several steps can help in tracking it down:

  • Contacting Banks: Begin by reaching out to banks where you might have held accounts in the past. Even if you don’t recall specifics, providing personal information such as previous addresses or identification details can aid in their search.
  • Using Online Services: The government’s official ‘My Lost Account’ service is a valuable tool. It allows you to search for lost accounts across multiple banks and building societies by filling out a form with your details.
  • Checking Unclaimed Assets Registers: Several organisations maintain registers of unclaimed assets. Websites like the ‘British Bankers’ Association’ and ‘Building Societies Association’ offer search facilities to locate lost accounts.
  • Consulting with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): The FCA provides guidance on finding lost accounts and offers additional resources for individuals seeking dormant funds.

Rediscovering Forgotten Insurance Policies

Similarly, insurance policies often slip from memory over time. These could include life insurance, pension schemes, or endowment policies. To rediscover these potentially valuable assets, consider the following steps:

  • Reviewing Old Documentation: Start by going through old paperwork, including bank statements, correspondence, or policy documents. Look for any mentions of insurance policies or premiums paid.
  • Contacting Insurance Companies: If you suspect you have a policy but lack concrete information, contact insurance companies you’ve dealt with in the past. Provide any relevant details you remember, such as your name, previous addresses, or policy numbers.
  • Utilising Tracing Services: Several online tracing services and professional investigators specialise in finding lost policies. While some services charge a fee, they might offer expertise and tools to streamline the search process.
  • Consulting the Unclaimed Assets Register: The Unclaimed Assets Register (UAR) can assist in locating forgotten life insurance policies by conducting a search based on your details.

Final Thoughts

Discovering forgotten bank accounts or insurance policies can provide a welcome financial boost or peace of mind. However, exercising caution is crucial—be wary of fraudulent services promising to uncover lost assets for a fee. Always utilise official and reputable channels when seeking to reclaim forgotten funds or policies.

In a country where unclaimed assets amount to substantial figures, taking proactive steps to track down lost financial assets could yield unexpected rewards. By leveraging available resources and being diligent in your search, you might just unearth hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered.

We hope you found our blog post on finding lost bank accounts and insurance policies for older people informative and helpful. It’s not uncommon for accounts and policies to be forgotten or misplaced over time, but with the tips and resources provided in this article, you can take proactive steps to locate and claim any lost funds or policies. Remember to stay organised, gather necessary documentation, and utilise online search tools and government resources to aid in your search. 

 If you have any further questions or would like to share your success story, please feel free to contact us at info@mylifemyword.com

Unveiling Hidden Treasures: Read More »

Are you swearing at me?

Data Storage, Family, People, Trends
Modern language swearing has become more common in dialogue for a variety of reasons.

One reason is that society’s attitudes towards language have become more relaxed and accepting of “rough” or “edgy” language.

Additionally, swearing has been found to have emotional and cathartic effects, and can also be used to establish a sense of camaraderie or in-group identity.

In some cases, it may also be used as a form of rebellion or expression of individuality.

Finally, the influence of popular media, such as movies and television shows, which often feature characters who swear, may also contribute to the increased use of swear words in everyday dialogue.

Is there too much swearing on television?

The use of swearing on television is a topic of debate. Some argue that there is too much swearing on television, as it can be considered offensive or inappropriate for certain audiences, particularly children. Others argue that the use of swearing on television reflects the reality of everyday language and can be an important tool for artistic expression or character development.

It is important to note that different countries, cultures and communities have different attitudes towards the use of swear words on television and it is also subject to regulation by government and media authorities. Some countries have stricter standards regarding the use of swear words on television than others.

Ultimately, whether or not there is too much swearing on television is a matter of personal opinion and cultural context but if it’s Ok for James Cleverly then it’s ok for anyone,

But if you want people to know what you really think when you’re gone click here

 

I know what I think……..

Are you swearing at me? Read More »

Some things no-one knows about you (and they should!)

Data Storage, Family, Finance, Possesions, Power-of-Attorney, Wills

Or why being totally private may not be a good idea

The era of the Internet has given many others worries about privacy. These days we find there is no such thing. The Internet allows commercial companies to track where you are, where you live and what stuff you buy.

Everyone knows about you……….until you need a friend, child or trusted other to access vital information on your behalf.

Have you thought about how it would be if anything happened to you that prevented you from dealing with things yourself because of illness, your location or death?

I hear stories from relatives, usually, children, who although their parents want them to have access to their bank account, cannot get it because of the bank’s formalities.

Even if they have a Power of Attorney or are an Executor under will the Bank gives them many fences to jump over before permitting which all takes time.

But it’s not only banking, is it? Over the last three or four years, many government departments have put pressure on the public to use online services and that means there will be login information required to access.

This is very unfair on older people who are not Internet competent. Even if they are, where do they store their passwords?

One solution is to write them all down in a little red book and store it on the bedside cabinet. The problem with this is one of security but there is also the potential of accidental loss. It might also be a problem for the person or relative needing speedy access, but living on the other side of the world.

You can provide them with hard copy information that you have stored at home but this increases the security risk if it should fall into the wrong hands.

In the old days, those that could afford it might store such .information with their solicitors but very few law firms provide that sort of service these days and if they do, there will be a fee.

Luckily, there is now a solution but it is true to say that it does rely on a certain competence on the Internet.

There are some companies now who for little or no cost will provide a digital locker where passwords, account numbers and other access detail can be stored authorisation given to others as directed by the person storing the information.

The free service is limited but there is a comprehensive “paid for”service which includes digital storage of wills, photographs and other documentation. Click here for more information

This type of service is also useful if you wish to store confidential information that you do not want to have anyone have access to until your death, for instance, a final word or notification of your death to a loved one who you have not been able to contact for reasons known only to you, a last farewell.

Do you really need any of this? Only you can decide that and if your affairs are very simple then the answer is probably not but for very many people now this is not the case.

To try and decide this, make a list of all the companies that you deal with either online or in writing who your nearest and dearest or professional advisor might need to contact in the event that you cannot.

You may find yourself very surprised!

Some things no-one knows about you (and they should!) Read More »

5 reasons for not making a will

charity, Data Storage, Family, Finance, Funeral Planning, People, Pets, Possesions, Power-of-Attorney, Wills

59% of people in the UK have not made a will. The top 5 reasons for not doing this are given below but funny thing, none of those reasons are valid. Let’s look at them

 

1. Making a will is too expensive

It absolutely isn’t. There are lots of law firms and willwriters out there who can provide a simple will for as little as £25, Some charities will do it for free (although they are usually looking for a donation) and you can even do it yourself (this is not recommended in case you get it wrong and it is invalid!) 
 

2. I haven’t got the time to make a will

So how long will a will take? Well unless you are very wealthy and want to leave something to lots of people,  probably not long at all. Half an hour with a notebook and pencil and another 20 minutes on the internet should do it.
 

3. I’m too young to make a will

This one might just (just!) be valid if you have just left school and starting your first job. Time passes by very quickly though and we never know what’s going to happen as recent events have made very clear
 

4. I don’t have any money.

It’s true to say that very many people don’t think they have any money and ordinary everyday living costs nearly all of many people’s income.
 
It’s possible that some money might be on its way to you before you died and you did not know about it. A premium bond win, something a relative left to you in their will and you did not know they had even died.
 
A simple free will could take care of that if it happened.
 
But  “money isn’t everything” and there are an awful lot of things that you could put in a will that might save everyone a lot of time, trouble, and possible arguments after you’ve gone
 
I would only need a will if there was any money in my bank when I died.
 
Not so:
 

Who looks after your minor children? 

Who gets your personal effects and mementoes? 

Who takes care of your pets? 

What sort of funeral do you want?

 
There is no monetary value you can put on this but it is important that you can take control of it now.
 
But, you say, I don’t care about any of that. Are you sure? It’s amazing how quickly people can change their minds when knocking at heaven’s door (remember Lord Marchmain going back to believing in God just before he died in Brideshead Revisited?)
 
At least making a will now will focus your mind and remember, there is nothing to stop you from changing it any time.
 
So what’s to stop you from doing it? The cost, I hear you say. Well, these days that isn’t an issue since you can even do it “for free”. You must have seen on the television many charities offering to make your will for free but you should remember that they will be looking for a donation.
 
They will put you on a mailing list forever unless you opt out.
 
The problem with free charity wills is that they may not allow you to make future changes without charge. You should always remember that if something is offered to you for free then you are the product.
 
In the old days if you wanted to make a will you went to see a solicitor for a face-to-face visit. I know, I had clients that came to see me to do this but these days, finding the time and the money might be a problem.
 
If you are reading this, then you are comfortable with being online and these days nothing could be simpler than making a will online for a very small one-off charge that most people can afford.
 
It comes with helpful information and advice and could cost under £40 which also includes information storage that might be needed on your death.
 
Time is not an issue because you can deal with this at your own pace over a period of time before finalisation.
 
We are all now very aware over the last two years how quickly the normal can change with a big effect on our lives. If anything has focused us on our own mortality and the welfare of ourselves and our families Covid has.
 
That nice extended old age might not happen but at least you can help your loved ones (or even people that need your help that you do not know) easily and cheaply.
 
Good reasons not to make a will?
 
Actually, I tried quite hard to think of 5 reasons why you do not need a will and couldn’t think of any more than 4. Can you?
 

5 reasons for not making a will Read More »

billiards, ball, play-5201811.jpg

Five simple shots to win the Snooker game of Life

Cremation, Family, Finance, Funeral Planning, People, Possesions, Power-of-Attorney, Wills

I spend a lot of time watching   Snooker on television.

I was never much good at the game myself and I am always amazed at the skill of the players. the balls potted one by one. It dawned on me that it’s a bit like life, you have to get the right balls into the right pockets and at the right time.

So in the snooker game of life, this is the order of the balls you need to pot and why should you do it.

 Yellow Ball:

you need to make a will, it’s one of the most important balls on the table, you should sink it as soon as possible. Miss it and you could cause all sorts of problems for your family. It may leave them arguing amongst themselves. They might be in a position that you did not want to leave them in

it doesn’t matter that you don’t have lots of money or assets at the time that you make your will ( but who knows, your favourite uncle might leave you several Bitcoin two days before you die!). At least you’ll know that if that happens the right people will get the right share.

You can make sure that your minor children are okay if anything were to happen to you or the other parent leaving them orphans by making provisions as to their guardianship and trustees. You don’t want it to happen but it just might. It’s not expensive or difficult to do this online: Click here

Green Ball:

Making a Lasting Power of Attorney. This is one of the most important things that you can do regardless of whether you have any money or not. If you are ill or cannot carry out important legal functions yourself due to incapacity or location and you have appointed an attorney, they can do it for you.

Brown Ball:

Next after the green, make a health and welfare power of attorney. Watch the television to see people in hospitals on ventilators and you will know how important it is to have someone who can discuss your medical condition and make decisions about treatment on your behalf.

You can pot those two last balls easily yourself online www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney or have it done here for you. Click Here

Blue Ball:

Remember what it was like in the old days when your mum and dad had one bank account, a life insurance policy each, their state pensions and maybe a couple of premium bonds? They kept all the paperwork in a drawer in the bedroom and when the time came that it was needed it was easily found and looked at.

  

It is not like that any longer. Not only do we sometimes have several bank or savings accounts we have pension plans, various other types of financial assets such as stocks and shares and digital currency as well as contracts with various third parties all of which are now dealt with online.

To deal with any of this online means that we need passwords and other login information. Keeping a hardcopy list in the drawer in your bedroom is not a good idea. if it’s digital information it can be stored at low or virtually no cost which means it can be easily found by your family executors and attorneys that you have given access to. Fix that, click here

Pink ball:

You may be in the pink right now but when the time comes your executors and family will need to organise your funeral and this can be not only emotionally difficult but also extremely expensive. The truth is that most of us don’t even give a thought to our funerals until it’s too late but we should.

Why? Because we may not want a big send-off with all the trimmings but something more simple. This is a highly personal matter and can cause arguments amongst family so why not plan ahead so that everyone knows what needs to happen when the time comes?

In snooker terms, it’s a safety shot which if played now enables this one to be potted, no problem. (More information here)

Black Ball

Well, this one is all down to you but none of us wants to pot the black too early ‘it’s the end of the game!

Keep playing as long as possible!

Five simple shots to win the Snooker game of Life Read More »

My treasured stuff

Data Storage, Family, Possesions, Video message

The Repair Shop is one of the best programmes on television at present. If you haven’t seen it, it presents the opportunity for people to bring along damaged or worn heirlooms or family treasures and have them restored to good condition. Such things clearly can mean a lot to people as they bring back memories and comfort to those that they now belong to.

The things that are brought along to The Repair Shop for fixing though are real objects that can be looked at, touched and felt by those who cherish them. You may have some of these things yourself. The thing is though, after you’ve gone, who gets them and understands what they mean?

putting a long list of possessions (and maybe not very valuable ones at that) is not a good idea. It may delay the distribution and incur costs from legal advisors. Leave a list lying around at home, it may get lost or overlooked.

 

You can get around this by leaving instructions in your online secure information deposit box which your trusted ones can access (with your previous permissions). Organise and store your important financial and legal documents along with personal mementoes in a safe and secure online account.  There are a number of such service providers but one of the best is an account that allows you to keep track of your online and offline account’s day-to-day, while also ensuring that this information is available to friends, family and loved ones, should anything happen to you.

Sometimes it is hard to deal with thoughts, reminiscences and love because the opportunity to say these things out loud does not happen when we are alive. Very often we leave it until it is too late, maybe because we think no one should know until we’re gone. (You know, a message of feelings for that other person you needed to keep secret?) Not the sort of things you put in your will

It is now easy for people to record their feelings, thoughts, love and apologies after they have passed away but which can be kept forever and delivered at the right place at the right time. Leave a video message for a loved one so they never forget the sound of your voice or store photos that bring a smile and keep them safe in your online account. Make sure those closest to you know just how much you care.  You deal with all of this simply, easily and cheaply.

Click here for further detail. 

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