Senior Tiny Times – Putting Your Ducks in a Row – By Jennifer Gray, Volunteer Writer
TINY – July 25, 2025 – As we age, there is a growing elephant in the room that is asking us about our end-of-life plans. No one likes to talk about death, particularly our own, but it becomes an increasingly important topic. Many of us have reservations – we don’t want to contemplate the other side of life, upset our family or friends, bring down the mood of a social gathering, or we find ourselves fumbling over the right words or phrases to say.
Death or incapacity is not easy to discuss but preparing for it and having conversations in advance can help people become more comfortable with the idea. Proper planning can also greatly alleviate the burden that is placed on the survivors. It’s enough to have loved ones grieve for us without having to untangle our personal affairs. Also, if we are rendered incapacitated without notice, our next of kin may be asked for immediate direction on next steps for our care. When we are mentally capable, we can make our own living and healthcare decisions. However, there could come a time when we cannot give instructions for managing our health and personal affairs. The best gift we can give to our loved ones is a clear and informed set of instructions for end-of-life preparations or future healthcare needs.
In recognition of this very important topic, the Township of Tiny’s Senior Advisory Committee (SAC) is hosting a program this Fall called ‘Ducks in a Row’. The series of three workshops is intended to guide older adults in organizing their personal information into a structured, accessible repository that provides a chosen executor or caregiver clear and concise direction on how they would like their affairs managed. Each 90-minute session will cover different topics with handouts provided. Topics will include the importance of detailed personal information, residential arrangements, and health information including personal values, priorities, and consideration regarding treatments in case of incapacity. Legal and financial matters will also be covered, including financial planning, power of attorney, and personal wills. Guest speakers will be invited to present on select topics. All sessions are interactive, with audience participation and questions are encouraged.
The workshops will be held at the Tiny Community Centre on September 24th, October 1st and October 8th, 2025. The sessions are free, but participants must register in advance. Attendees are asked to bring their own three-ring binder. Registration for this program opens for Tiny residents on August 18th at noon, and general registration opens on August 25th at noon. For more information contact the Township of Tiny Recreation and Special Events Department at (705) 526-4204 or visit www.tiny.ca/playportal.
The information in this article is provided as a public service by the Township of Tiny Senior’s Advisory Committee. We invite and welcome your feedback and suggestions on how we can make Senior Tiny Times a valuable information resource for our Seniors.
Website: www.tiny.ca/seniors
Phone: 705-526-4204
Email: seniors@tiny.ca