Approximately ten percent of people die in their homes. Most of these are unexpected deaths, but it is possible to remain at home in a terminal condition, under the supervision of a doctor.
If a body is discovered at home, and there is any uncertainty as to whether the person is dead, an ambulance should be called immediately. If ambulance officers determine that the person is dead, they will leave the body in the home, otherwise they will take it to a hospital.
If a person at home is known to be dead, the first step for the person's family is to call the doctor who last treated the dead person so that within 24 hours of death, a medical certificate can be issued (and a cremation certificate, if required). The doctor will also be trained in dealing with death and will be able to guide the family of the dead person through the first stages of the funeral process. Usually, this will involve contacting a funeral director who can conduct all aspects of the funeral. Alternatively, the family can chose to arrange a do-it-yourself funeral.
Copyright © Australian Museum, 2008
