Why More Families Are Writing Wills – And Why Planning Ahead Matters

Planning for the future is something many of us put off. It can feel uncomfortable to think about later life, finances, or what happens after we are gone. Yet recent research suggests that more people across the UK are beginning to recognise just how important these conversations and decisions really are.

Searches related to will writing have risen significantly across the country, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of preparing for the future and ensuring loved ones are protected.

At Mumby’s, we often speak to families who are beginning to think more carefully about long-term planning — not only around finances and legal matters, but also around care, independence, and how to support loved ones as they grow older.

Writing a will is one important part of that planning.

Why Are More People Writing Wills?

Recent analysis found substantial increases in online searches for “how to write a will” and related terms across many parts of the UK. Birmingham alone saw searches rise by over 120% year-on-year, while many other areas also reported significant increases.

This rise reflects a broader shift in how people are thinking about the future.

Over recent years, families have become increasingly aware of:

• The importance of financial planning
• The emotional impact of unexpected illness or loss
• The need to protect loved ones from uncertainty
• The importance of documenting personal wishes clearly

Research also shows that only around 37% of UK adults currently have a valid will in place. That means millions of people may still leave important decisions unresolved for their families.

For many people, major life events often trigger these conversations, including:

• Retirement
• Buying a property
• Becoming a parent or grandparent
• Receiving a health diagnosis
• Supporting an ageing parent

In many cases, families begin considering wills and estate planning at the same time they begin discussing future care needs.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will?

Without a valid will, your estate may not be distributed according to your wishes.

Instead, the law decides how assets are shared under intestacy rules. This can create additional stress and uncertainty for loved ones during an already emotional time.

Potential issues may include:

• Family disagreements
• Delays in handling estates
• Financial complications
• Unclear wishes regarding property or possessions
• Difficulties for unmarried partners

Writing a will provides clarity and reassurance — both for the individual and for those closest to them.

It allows people to:

• Decide who should inherit their assets
• Appoint executors to manage their estate
• Name guardians for children
• Record personal wishes clearly

As experts quoted in recent research explained, one of the greatest benefits of writing a will is the peace of mind it can bring to families.

Planning Ahead Can Reduce Stress for Families

At Mumby’s, we regularly support families who are navigating difficult decisions about care, health, and changing circumstances.

One of the most common things we hear is:

“We wish we had spoken about this earlier.”

Planning ahead can make a significant difference.

Having conversations early about:

• Care preferences
• Living arrangements
• Financial planning
• Lasting Power of Attorney
• Wills and legal wishes

can help reduce uncertainty later on.

It also gives individuals greater control over the decisions that affect their future.

Writing a Will Is Part of Wider Later Life Planning

A will is only one part of preparing for later life.

Many families are also beginning to think more carefully about:

• How they would like to be cared for as they age
• Whether they wish to remain living at home
• How to maintain independence safely
• What support may eventually be needed

For many older adults, staying in familiar surroundings remains incredibly important.

This is why more families are exploring alternatives to residential care, including live-in care that allows someone to continue living comfortably in their own home with one-to-one support.

Having plans and Advance wishes in place early can help families make informed, calm decisions when circumstances change.

What Should You Consider When Writing a Will?

Every individual’s situation is different, but there are several key areas to think about.

1. Your Assets

This may include:

• Property
• Savings and investments
• Pensions
• Personal belongings
• Digital accounts

Creating a clear overview can help ensure nothing is overlooked.

2. Who You Want to Benefit

A will allows you to decide exactly who should inherit from your estate, whether that includes family members, friends, or charities.

Clear instructions can help avoid confusion or disputes later.

3. Choosing Executors

Executors are responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will.

Many people choose trusted family members, friends, or professional advisers for this role.

4. Considering Lasting Power of Attorney

While separate from a will, many families also choose to arrange a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

This allows someone trusted to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

This can cover:

• Financial decisions
• Health and care decisions

LPAs can become particularly important later in life if health conditions change unexpectedly. Proactive legal measure that can protect against delays in times of crisis when unexpected things happen in life. 

5. Reviewing Your Wishes Regularly

A will should not simply be written and forgotten.

Major life changes such as:

• Marriage
• Divorce
• Moving home
• Births within the family
• Health changes

may mean it is important to review and update arrangements over time.

Why These Conversations Matter

Although discussing later life planning can sometimes feel difficult, open conversations often bring reassurance.

Families who have discussed wishes openly are often better prepared to:

• Make informed care decisions
• Respect personal preferences
• Avoid unnecessary stress during emergencies
• Feel more confident about the future

These conversations are not only about finances or legal paperwork.

They are about protecting dignity, independence, and peace of mind.

How Live-in Care Can Support Future Planning

For many people, one of the biggest concerns about ageing is the fear of losing independence or leaving the comfort of home.

At Mumby’s, we believe care should support independence wherever possible.

Live-in care allows people to:

• Remain in familiar surroundings
• Continue daily routines
• Stay close to family, pets, and community
• Receive personalised one-to-one support

For families planning ahead, understanding care options early can make future decisions feel far less overwhelming.

Whether someone requires companionship, support following illness, dementia care, or long-term assistance, having the right care plan in place can provide enormous reassurance.

Speak to Mumby’s About Planning for the Future

Planning for later life often involves many conversations — from wills and legal arrangements to understanding future care needs.

At Mumby’s Live-in Care, we understand how important it is for families to feel informed, supported, and reassured when making these decisions.

Our compassionate team offers a free, no-obligation assessment in the comfort of your own home, giving families the opportunity to discuss care options and explore the support available.

If you would like to learn more about live-in care and how Mumby’s can support your family, please contact us here:
Contact Mumby’s