Blackstones has launched its "Centenarian Membership" program, a proactive approach to end-of-life planning and health care. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on families by encouraging individuals to prepare early for future arrangements.

In East Asian cultures, death is a topic rarely discussed within families. Many people tend to avoid mentioning it or do not actively prepare for end-of-life matters in advance. Consequently, when an unexpected event occurs, families often face pressure to make many decisions quickly, including choosing funeral arrangements, religious rituals, managing costs, and arranging a final resting place.

Nguyen Manh Cuong, Operations Director of Blackstones' funeral organizing team for the central TP HCM area, states that families often struggle when dealing with financial, logistical, and ritual issues concurrently in the short period after a loved one passes away. "During such an emotional time, rushing through procedures and managing costs can prevent families from having a complete period to be with and bid farewell to their loved ones," Cuong explains.

The proactive preparation reduces pressure and brings peace of mind to families. *Photo: Blackstones*

The perception of early end-of-life planning is gradually changing in Vietnam. Instead of viewing it as a taboo subject, many now see early planning as a proactive way to reduce pressure on their families during difficult times.

An early end-of-life planning model first appeared in Japan in 1948, known as Gojokai. After decades of development, this funeral membership system now attracts tens of millions of participants. In Vietnam, Blackstones' "Centenarian Membership" program is designed to help customers access end-of-life and health care services at more affordable costs.

The program costs two million Vietnamese dong for 10 years of participation. Members receive consultation for end-of-life planning, support in preparing a final resting place or storing ashes at preferential costs, and access to medical and health care services.

Blackstones operates under Japan's Omotenashi philosophy, aiming to accompany and support families throughout the end-of-life arrangement process. *Photo: Blackstones*

Blackstones currently operates 5 branches in TP HCM and neighboring areas, with a team of nearly 200 staff specializing in funeral services. The company states it applies a management system compliant with ISO 9001:2015 standards, combined with Japan's Omotenashi service philosophy, to enhance service experience and support families during end-of-life arrangements. Under this operational model, staff assist with logistics, rituals, and related coordination throughout the funeral process.

Additionally, Blackstones collaborates with VietinBank for fund management and KPMG for auditing activities to enhance the transparency of the "Centenarian Membership" program. According to a company representative, preparing an end-of-life plan early helps individuals proactively arrange financial and logistical matters, reducing pressure on their families when unexpected events occur.

(Source: Blackstones)

Learn more about Blackstones Funeral Services

Website: https://blackstones.vn/

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