Firstly, take your time to think about what you really want to do next – for even an expected death is still a huge shock at this time. Sit with your loved one. If you desire to, even cuddle and kiss them. This might not seem easy to do, but the deceased is still the same person you loved in life.
Arrange for the doctor to come and formally verify life is extinct. If you have home carers, they will contact the doctor and arrange for the confirmation life is extinct. Your funeral director will ask when you phone whether you have the blue life extinct form.
You may phone the funeral directors of your choice to advise them that a death has occurred. It may assist the funeral director if you can advise them whether the funeral will be a burial or cremation.
There is no rush for funeral directors to attend – the deceased person may stay at home for many hours. You may wish to do the following, but it is important to remember you do not have to do anything. Your carers or the funeral director can do these for you.
- To make your loved one more comfortable, you may wish to wash them or put on clean clothes.
- Place a pillow under their head to raise slightly.
- Comb their hair.
- Teeth may be cleaned and replaced. If teeth have been removed for some time, you may wish to place them with the clothes for the funeral director to attend to.
- Call your funeral directors when you feel you are ready for your loved one to go into their care.
At Pinegrove Funerals, we take pride in supporting people throughout each stage of funeral planning. Preparing family and friends for the death of a loved one helps reduce the strain of stress and grief, making it easier for those left behind.