When Someone Dies at Home: What to Do Next

Losing a loved one at home can be overwhelming and emotional. Knowing what to do in those first moments is important for both legal and personal reasons. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take when someone dies at home, whether expected or unexpected, and provide resources for support during this difficult time.

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Quick Tips (Short Videos)

Immediate Steps to Take

When someone dies at home, the actions you take will depend on whether the death was expected (such as under hospice care) or unexpected. Here are the key steps to follow:

• Contact the appropriate authorities: If the death was expected, notify the hospice nurse or attending physician. For unexpected deaths, call emergency services (911) immediately.
• Do not move the body: Wait for professionals to arrive and confirm the death before making any arrangements.
• Gather important documents: Locate identification, medical records, and any advance directives or Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders.
• Notify close family members: Reach out to immediate family and close friends to inform them of the passing.

Who to Contact First

Situation	Who to Call	What to Prepare
Expected Death (Hospice)	Hospice Nurse or Physician	Medical records, DNR order
Unexpected Death	911 / Emergency Services	Identification, recent health info
After Confirmation	Funeral Home	Funeral preferences, insurance info

Legal and Practical Considerations

Once the death is confirmed, there are several legal and practical matters to address. A death certificate will need to be issued, typically by the attending physician or coroner. You will also need to contact a funeral home to arrange for the transfer of your loved one. If you are unsure about the next steps, you can read the full Shopify article or view the Google Doc version for more detailed instructions.

It is also important to secure the home and any valuables, notify the person’s employer if applicable, and begin gathering paperwork for insurance and estate matters. For more resources and support, visit The Funeral Program Site or explore our YouTube Channel for helpful videos.

Additional Resources

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Podcast Information

Listen to our podcast episode for more guidance on what to do when someone dies at home: Podcast Episode Link

Conclusion

Experiencing a death at home is never easy, but knowing the right steps can help you navigate the process with confidence and care. Remember to reach out for help, lean on professional resources, and take your time as you move through each stage. For more in-depth information, you can read the full Shopify article or view the Google Doc version.