Many people feel overwhelmed when discussing Advance Directives, Health Care Proxy, and Long-Term Health Care planning. We have put together a 10-step process for you to begin putting your plan in place.
1. Research the information you need to make informed choices about end-of-life care.
2. Get to know local end-of-life care services that are available to you such as hospice and palliative care
providers, nursing homes, and home health aide services.
3. Discuss your thoughts, concerns, and choices with your loved ones.
4. Choose a Health Care Proxy who could speak for you if you cannot and honor your wishes.
5. Talk to your doctor about different treatments and options including hospice and palliative care.
6. Establish Advance Directives (writing specifically about your wishes and what you want for end-of-life care).
7. Talk to your Health Care Proxy, family, and doctor about your choices.
8. Discuss your choices often, especially when your medical condition changes.
9. Keep your completed Advance Directives in an accessible place where others can get to them.
10. Give photocopies of the signed originals to your Health Care Proxy, doctor, family, friends, clergy, and anyone else who might be involved in your healthcare.
This 10-step process is focused on healthcare planning only. When it comes to financial matters we recommend talking to your attorney and financial planner. When you authorize a person to be your Power of Attorney, we recommend that they too receive an updated copy of your Advance Directives.
For more information on how to start the conversation with friends and family, visit www.hospicecny.org/what-do-you-say-to-your-loved-ones/.
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