Advanced Care Planning
Advanced care planning is the process of creating a comprehensive plan for one's medical care in the event that they become unable to make decisions for themselves. It involves thoughtful consideration of one's values, beliefs, and preferences, as well as consultation with loved ones and healthcare providers, to create a roadmap for future care. Advanced care planning is a proactive approach that can bring peace of mind to both individuals and their families, ensuring that their wishes are respected and that they receive care that aligns with their goals and values. This process can help reduce confusion, minimize stress, and improve the quality of life for those facing serious illness or the end of life.
Imagine This..
Imagine you are in the Intensive Care Unit of a hospital with a life-limiting illness that has left you unable to communicate with your caregivers or loved ones. Despite the best medical care available, your physician states that it is unlikely you will leave the hospital alive. They can, however, prolong your breathing and heart function temporarily by using artificial life support.
Do you want to leave these and other important healthcare decisions up to your loved ones or healthcare providers with no guidance from you? What doYOU want?
While most of us strive to be in control of every aspect of our lives, many people haven’t prepared to be in control of what happens to them near the end of life. A recent study showed 60 percent of individuals aged 18 and older wanted their end-of-life wishes to be respected, however only about a third of them had made their wishes known by completing Advance Directives. An Advance Directive offers guidance for future healthcare decisions in the event you cannot make them for yourself.
Making your wishes known for your healthcare by completing an Advance Directive puts you in charge of the care you want to receive. It also alleviates painful decisions and confusion for your loved ones. An Advance Directive is a statement of patient preferences that explains to everyone else: This is what I do (and do not) want to keep me going – and even more importantly, who will speak for me when I can’t.
According to the Congressional Research Service, more Americans are dying in the hospital (58%) or nursing homes (20%) than at home (22%). However, a recent Gallop poll revealed that 88 percent of adults would prefer to die in their homes surrounded by loved ones.
Have you told your loved ones or caregivers about where you want to spend your final days?
While talking about end-of-life healthcare decisions can be a difficult, it is a conversation about life and letting your loved ones know how you wish to live your remaining days. By creating a road map for your care and putting your plan in writing, you can help your loved ones accurately remember your plan and provide clear communication to healthcare providers.