Few topics are as emotional or as necessary when it comes to planning for the future as funeral and end-of-life arrangements. At Cheer Home Care, we believe in bringing these conversations to light with compassion and clarity. That’s why we were honored to host Rudee Slavik from the San Diego Memorial Society (SDMS) for a recent Snack and Share event, where she shared her expertise on preparing for the inevitable with dignity and ease.
Who is the San Diego Memorial Society?
Founded in 1958, SDMS is a nonprofit that helps San Diego residents plan for end-of-life services by offering pre-negotiated rates with local mortuaries. Members can choose from five funeral service plans across ten participating mortuaries, often saving between $200 and $800 (or more) on cremation or burial services. By becoming a member, individuals receive a comprehensive planning packet, which includes a vital booklet to record their wishes, legal documents, and a membership card. Whether you choose to prepay to lock in today’s pricing or wait until the time comes, SDMS provides a thoughtful and cost-effective way to plan.
Why Pre-Planning is a Gift
Rudee, a seasoned funeral director and advocate for modernizing the death care space, spoke with empathy. “I consider myself an ambassador for the loved ones entrusted in my care,” she said, addressing a room filled with questions (our team is always willing to learn!)
Her message was clear: funeral service options have evolved. Today’s families can choose from traditional services, such as green burials, cremation, and even human composting (coming to California in 2027). Planning isn’t just practical; it’s a gift to loved ones during a challenging time.
What Happens When Death Occurs?
The presentation walked us through the different scenarios that might follow a loved one’s passing:
- Under hospice care? The hospice nurse pronounces death.
- Not under hospice? The police and medical examiner may need to be contacted.
The next steps depend on documentation and planning: attending a funeral arrangement conference, contacting the mortuary, and providing essential legal documents like a will or Advance Health Care Directive. SDMS equips its members with a clear path through what can be an overwhelming process.
Exploring the Options: From Cremation to Green Burial
Funeral choices today are beyond the traditional. Rudee outlined options such as:
- Direct cremation or memorial services with family viewings
- Burial at sea for veterans or through private arrangements
- Eco-friendly alternatives like alkaline hydrolysis or composting
- Body donation to research institutions or science programs
Her advice? Know what you want and document it. Consider the values, wishes, and budget of the person being honored. And if you’re a caregiver or family member, find out who has the legal authority to make funeral decisions in California.
How Cheer Home Care Supports Families
Cheer Home Care hopes to be a supportive hand throughout all stages of care, including life’s final chapter. By partnering with experts like SDMS, we can connect our clients and their families with trustworthy resources and answers. At our Snack and Share event, Rudee’s expertise empowered us to ask tough questions and leave with the tools to take meaningful action. The Cheer team walked away grateful, inspired, and reminded of why our work matters.
Closing Thoughts
Preparing for the end of life might feel daunting, but as Rudee reminded us, it’s one of the kindest things we can do for those we love. We are thankful for the knowledge shared and the comfort offered through SDMS, and we encourage everyone to start these conversations sooner rather than later.
To learn more about the San Diego Memorial Society, visit sdmsonline.com.
Keep up to date with Cheer Home Care events at cheer.siteassembled.com/events.
