Death – we need to talk

SIR: Virginia Ironside’s correspondent (September issue) is correct in highlighting the need to talk about death. We all get there – even Mclachlan’s dog on the letters page in the same issue got a visit from the canine reaper. There are three phases that can be improved by thinking about it, talking and acting:

1) Disintegration where you can’t manage any longer – this can be ameliorated with a lasting power of attorney held by people you trust.

2) Death made easier for your family by perhaps a folder containing thoughts on your funeral, where to find useful documents, contact details of those who need to know, and a list of your computer and website passwords. Remember to tell your family where to find the folder.

3) Post-death: a valid will. Andrew Sanderson, Spennymoor, Co Durham