I just reviewed my Advanced Directive which contains my wishes for End of Life Care. This is a ritual I perform after the hustle of the Holidays and in preparation for the New Year. I review my will, financial plans and health care directives.
The majority of terminally ill patients have no clear idea what they want during their final days. They feel that once their bodies are overcome with illness and disease their choices are over. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. By the time Hospice arrives to provide care most people are too weak to discuss or explore their desires. This leaves us, not them, trying to figure out what to do.
Why leave these important decisions, which carry with them lasting impressions and memories for grief stricken family and friends, to health care professionals who don’t know these individuals. Take the time this month to review, complete and discuss your wishes with your loved ones. Review the Advanced Directive information and sample directive under Resources in the main menu above. There you can print out a copy, fill it in and review with your loved ones. There are many helpful step by step tools available and I have included my favorite the “5 Wishes.”
It’s never to early to start these conversations and more often then not it’s too late.
All my best to you and yours for a wonderful and gracious New Year!
Mary Ann – Thank you so much for your very meaningful and helpful articles. They have been a guide for me in caring for my dying sister. I will definitely review her Advanced directive and my own.