Have you been thinking about what your future medical care might look like if something were to happen to you and you were unable to communicate your treatment preferences or make decisions?
Advance care planning can include advance directives such as a living will, durable power of attorney for health care, and psychiatric advance directive; medical orders like POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) or DNR (Do Not Resuscitate); and whether you want to be an organ donor.
The best time to start your advance care planning is when you turn 18, have been diagnosed with a serious or progressive illness, are going through a divorce, or have a loved one who has died. If you already have an advance directive, it is important to update your plan each year or after any major life changes.
“It is crucial for adults of any age to have their healthcare wishes made clear in writing on advance directives,” says Amy Wescott, LCSW, social worker, Northern Light Home Care & Hospice.
“It may feel uncomfortable, overwhelming, or even frightening at first to think about advance care planning,” says Zoë Tenney, MSN, FNP, APRN, hospice and palliative care nurse practitioner, Northern Light Home Care & Hospice. “Every day in Hospice, we see the benefit of this thoughtful planning. Most people find a sense of empowerment and relief to have their wishes documented (with an Advance Directive or POLST) or even just to formally name an emergency decision maker with a simple health care power of attorney form.”
At Northern Light Health, “Providers, nurses, and social workers can help people complete an advance directive, POLST, or DNR by helping them understand their options, clarify their wishes, and ensure the documents are properly executed,” says Wescott.
This is especially important during a healthcare crisis. “When loved ones are clear on a person’s wishes as their health status changes, there is less anxiety around decision making, and more focus on providing the support that is most appreciated and needed for their friend or family member who may be nearing the end of life,” explains Tenney.
Simply put, having your advance care directives in place now will give you and your family peace of mind. “It also allows the healthcare team to tailor our approach to one that best respects and supports your comfort and dignity,” explains Tenney.
To learn more, check out the links below, discuss with your primary care provider, home care or hospice clinician, care team, local Area Agency on Aging, or contact your lawyer.
If you are a veteran, contact your local Veteran’s Affairs office for veteran specific advance directives.
DOWNLOAD FORMS
Maine advance directive and healthcare power of attorney forms are available at www.northernlighthealth.org/HIM
EXPLORE ADVANCE CARE PLANNING
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning