Planning for Uncertainty: Understanding Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning is not just about old age. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you too ill to make your own healthcare decisions. It involves learning about the types of decisions that might need to be made, considering those decisions ahead of time, and then letting others know—both your family and your healthcare providers—about your preferences.

Your decisions on these matters are often put into an advance directive, a legal document that goes into effect only if you are incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself. This could be the result of disease or severe injury—no matter how old you are. It helps others know what type of medical care you want and allows you to express your values and desires related to end-of-life care. You might think of it as a living document—one that you can adjust as your situation changes because of new information or a change in your health.

Start by thinking about what kind of treatment you do or do not want in a medical emergency. In considering treatment decisions, your personal values are key. If you decide to choose a proxy (someone to represent you), think about people you know who share your views and values about life and medical decisions. Your proxy might be a family member, a friend, your lawyer, or someone in your social or spiritual community.

Once you have talked with your doctor and have an idea of the types of decisions that could come up in the future and whom you would like as a proxy, if you want one at all, the next step is to fill out the legal forms detailing your wishes.

Your trusted legal partner

At Matt Wolfe Law, we understand the complexities of legal documents and how they serve to protect your rights and your interests. Count on us to reduce your stress and paperwork by handling your advance directives — and other legal issues — in a timely and efficient manner. For more information on our services, give us a call today.