Finding the Hospice That Is Right for You
What is hospice? Who pays for hospice? How to choose the hospice that is right for you.
Funeral Consumers Alliance of the Virginia Blue Ridge
Protecting your end-of-life rights
Funeral Consumers Alliance of the Virginia Blue Ridge
Protecting your end-of-life rights
Katy
Write Your Own Obituary
This article provides guidelines for writing your own obituary, suggestions for a eulogy, and for choosing an epitaph if you plan to have a grave marker or memorial marker.
Brochures
These professionally designed brochures about funeral and end-of-life topics from the Funeral Consumers Alliance may be downloaded and printed for distribution to members or at events.
PowerPoint Programs
Who says death is boring? We have PowerPoint presentations on alternative funeral practices, green burial, and more that you can use to host your own event.
About the FCAVBR
The Funeral Consumers Alliance of the Virginia Blue Ridge (FCAVBR) is an affiliate of the Funeral Consumers Alliance, a nation-wide network with affiliates in nearly every state. The FCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting a consumer’s right to choose a…
Death is Universal
This video, entitled, “Death is Universal,” explores enduring themes of death and dying, created by our local FCA affiliate.
Are You Ready? Conversations About Healthcare Decision-Making
This video, “Are You Ready? Conversations About Healthcare Decision-Making,” comes from Palliative Care Partners of the New River Valley, VA. View more video resources here.
Why You Should Have The Uncomfortable Talk About Funeral Plans
This feature story from Baltimore’s WMAR-2 News highlights funeral costs and consumer protection. July 16, 2021.
What to Do When a Family Member Dies
This expanded “Checklist of Things to DO After Death” is based on an article published by AARP in June 2020, updated in 2023 from FCA literature, should help you figure out what to do when a family member dies. Settling…
Let’s Include Funerals in the Conversation
Include funerals in the conversation when a loved one is dying to relieve you of the stress and confusion of practical decisions.
Documents Everyone Needs at End of Life
These essential documents for end of life will help you to cover all the bases for yourself or a loved one.
Do Not Resuscitate DNR Form
Download Virginia's DNR form to execute a Durable Do Not Resuscitate Order (DDNR) that comports with your wishes in accordance with Virginia law.
DNR Bracelets & Pendants
A DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) bracelet helps communicate your wishes to medical professionals if you become unresponsive. Authorized providers of DNR bracelets and pendants in Virginia.
Designate an Agent for Body Disposition
Your power to designate an agent for body disposition is honored in all states. Learn more and download a pre-made form for Virginia.
Virginia Advance Medical Directive
In this post you will find various advance medical directive forms for Virginia, beginning with the most commonly used form, along with background on advance directives, a table for choosing the right form for you, and info and links to the registry where your wishes may be uploaded to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Backyard Burial: What a Way to Go
A Virginia family chooses a backyard burial for their loved one, just up the hill from the house.
FTC Funeral Rule
The Funeral Rule, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, makes it possible for you to choose only those goods and services you want or need and to pay only for those you select, whether you are making arrangements when a death occurs or in advance. The Rule allows you to compare prices among funeral homes, and makes it possible for you to select the funeral arrangements you want at the home you use.
Your Digital Legacy
Laws governing digital assets, digital estate planning, helpful tools and resources for handling digital assets after death.
How to Save on Caskets
Learn about alternatives to expensive caskets, FTC laws about pricing, and misleading product claims.
How to Pay for a Funeral or Other Arrangements
Explore how to pay for a funeral, economize on expenses, comparison shop, set aside resources, and get financial assistance.
Financial Assistance for Final Arrangements
Where to inquire for financial assistance with final arrangements, including Department of Social Services, Catholic charities, even local funeral homes.
How to Plan a Memorial Service
Learn how to plan a memorial service, with ideas for style and venue, participants and invitations, programs, music, words, flowers, and more.
Recycling Implants After Death
Today many implants, pacemakers, artificial joints, and metal plates can be recycled—extracted, processed, and ultimately reused in some form.
Body, Organ, and Brain Donation
By deciding to donate your body or organs, you can make a valuable gift to humanity and offer hope to future generations.