Trusted End of Life Planning Resources in L.A.
End of Life Planning Resources in Southern California
It can feel overwhelming to face or plan for the end of life, but with the right support, the experience can begin to feel more natural — like something we are being guided through rather than bracing against. After all, dying is one of the most universal human experiences — something that touches every one of us, whether it comes suddenly or unfolds slowly over time.
Here in Los Angeles, we have access to a range of professionals and resources that can ease the challenges that come with this stage of life. The support we outline here can help you and your family feel more supported in this season of life.
Geriatric Care Managers
A geriatric care manager (also called an aging life care professional) is a trained specialist, often with a background in nursing, social work, gerontology, or counseling . They help older adults and their families navigate the complex landscape of care and support needs as health changes with age.
Geriatric Care Managers can offer support in:
- Health & Medical Support
- Daily Living & Safety
- Financial & Legal Guidance or Referrals
- Transition & Long-Term Planning
- Coordination & Advocacy
Highly-rated and accessible Geriatric Care Professionals in Los Angeles
Estate Planning / Legal Resources
Estate planning resources help clarify financial and healthcare decisions. Elder law attorneys specialize in guiding families through these legal matters, offering advice on everything from long-term care planning to protecting assets.
Estate Planners can offer support in:
- Wills
- Revocable Living Trusts
- Irrevocable Trusts
- Special Needs Trusts
- Power of Attorney
- Advance Healthcare Directives
- Guardianship for Minor Children
Highly-Rated and accessible Estate Planning Professionals and Resources in Los Angeles:
Los Angeles Leaving a Legacy program:
Free estate planning for people with low- moderate income.
Financial & Benefits Guidance
Seniors face unique financial decisions—from maximizing Social Security benefits to managing Medicare/Medicaid, long-term care insurance, in-home or residential care, and day-to-day care costs.
Financial planning provides a clear roadmap through complex systems like Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and long-term care insurance. A financial planner can help anticipate expenses, create realistic care budgets, and make informed choices before a crisis hits.
Financial and Benefits Guides can offer support in:
- Navigating Medicare and Medicaid coverage and eligibility
- Evaluating long-term care insurance options
- Planning for in-home care, assisted living, or nursing care costs
- Creating realistic monthly and long-term care budgets
- Anticipating future medical and support expenses
- Coordinating benefits to avoid coverage gaps or unnecessary costs
Highly-rated and accessible financial and benefits resources in Los Angeles:
Free Medicare and Medi‑Cal counseling, advocacy, workshops, and one‑on‑one support for older adults, caregivers, and families.
Support for Caregivers / Family
Respite care and supportive services give caregivers the chance to rest, recharge, and tend to their own needs - all while knowing their loved one is safe and cared for. From short-term in-home help to adult day programs and overnight care, these resources provide breaks that protect caregivers from burnout and help families sustain care over the long term. For many families, hospice services also become an important layer of support — offering medical care, emotional guidance, and respite for caregivers during the final stages of life.
Caregiver Support can help with:
- Providing breaks to rest, recharge, and prevent burnout
- Offering short-term in-home care so caregivers can leave the home for appointments, work, or personal needs
- Providing day programs and companion care
- Covering overnight or weekend care to allow for time off
Adult Children Caregiver Support Groups
California Department of Aging - Family Caregiver Services
Community & Social Engagement
Community and social engagement help reduce isolation, boost emotional well-being, and create a sense of belonging. From support groups and volunteer opportunities to social clubs and community programs, these connections offer meaningful ways to stay active, build relationships, and feel supported.
Community and social engagement can offer support with:
- Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness
- Strengthening emotional well-being and mental health
- Creating a sense of belonging and connection
- Providing meaningful ways to stay active through clubs, classes, and volunteer work
- Los Angeles Community and Senior Centers
- Parks and Recreation Senior Citizen Centers
Death Doulas
Death doulas (also called end-of-life doulas) provide non-medical, emotional, and practical support to both people who are dying and their loved ones. They help create a sense of calm, dignity, and meaning during the end-of-life journey, offering guidance before, during, and after death.
Common things death doulas help with:
- Emotional support for the dying person and their family
- End-of-life planning and legacy projects (letters, recordings, memory books)
- Facilitating conversations about wishes, fears, and values
- Comfort measures and calming presence at the bedside
- Guidance through vigil and the dying process
- Support for family members immediately after death
- Coordination with hospice, caregivers, and other professionals
- Grief support and resources for loved ones
Also see our blog on Grief Resources
Highly-Rated and accessible Death Doula Professionals in Los Angeles:
Jill Shock- Death Doula, Death Doula LA
Pre-Arranging Funeral and End of Life Expenses
Pre-planning for end-of-life needs and expenses helps ensure your wishes are honored, and gives your loved ones one less thing to manage during an already difficult time. With pre-planning:
- final expenses are paid in advance
- prices are locked-in
- information is collected ahead of time for future paperwork
- preferences are clearly documented with a funeral home
Braeden with LifeSource is licensed in final expense insurance and can help guide you through important decisions for end of life. Learn more about pre-planning and
set up an appointment here.
About LifeSource
LifeSource is a green funeral home offering the widest range of sustainable options in Southern California. Rooted in the belief that our final acts can honor both our loved ones and the natural world. When you’re ready, begin planning with our
Green Funeral Planning Guide, or set up a time to talk with us
https://lifesource.earth/contact-us about creating a farewell that feels thoughtful, gentle, and in harmony with nature.
