To everything there is a season

We have had some very nice, spring-like days in February, days that give us false hope that winter is over and spring is here. However, we need to remember that winter has its place before spring arrives.

Most of us do not want to think about what happens when someone we care about dies, but there are things that need to be done to make things easier on the grieving family and friends. Arrangements need to be made, and there can be lots of paperwork to take care of. Everyone's circumstances will be different, but some things are universal.

One of the first things that is needed is the death certificate. A qualified medical profession will do an official declaration of death. You will probably need several copies of the certificate. You will need death certificates to file for insurance benefits. If there are multiple policies, you will need one for each. Social Security will also need a copy, but this is usually provided by the funeral home. You may need to take a copy to the loved one's financial institutions and close accounts or transfer money to beneficiaries. A certificate is usually needed to get assets or property transferred. And you may also need copies to close accounts or file taxes. This will vary and it is better to have a few extra.

Notifications should be made to family, friends, coworkers and others who need to know. Arrangements need to be made depending on the wishes and preplanning of the loved one. The funeral director will be very helpful guiding you through what you can afford and what you want. Though this is new to you, they have experience and can answer your questions and help this process be as easy as possible.

You may need to secure the property of the loved one, especially if he or she lived alone. If this person lived alone and had pets, the animals will need to be fed and homes will need to be found for them. Has someone been designated to take out the trash, clean out the fridge or water the plants? These little things can make a big difference to you.

One thing that should be done as soon as you are able is to make an appointment to speak with Social Security, especially if you are the spouse. You may get a new amount on your monthly Social Security payment. This new amount could change your eligibility for extra-help programs. With a change in the number of people in the household and income, you may qualify for some programs; but, in some cases, you might lose benefits. It is important to know as soon as possible if there will be any changes.

This is just a brief list of things to do when a loved one passes away. What you can do will vary based on your relationship to the deceased and what plans this person had made. Just remember to take care of yourself during this difficult time. Allow yourself time to grieve and focus on yourself.

If you have questions, please contact Aging Matters at (800) 392-8771 because aging matters.

JACKIE DOVER is the public information director of Aging Matters. Also known as Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging, it is a not-for-profit organization serving an 18-county area in Southeast Missouri, with the regional office in Cape Girardeau.