The steps of the advance care planning process
can be easily explained, but the process for thinking through the issues
is no quick fix. There is not substitute for talking over your wishes with
your loved ones. Below are several steps that summarize the process involved
in advance care planning.
- Understand what advance care planning is. The goal of advance care
planning is for you to live well, in a way that is meaningful to you,
for as long as you can.
- Think about your health now, and prepare for changes
that might occur in the future.
- Learn the different setting where you might receive the care you
need. What are your options?
- Your values and beliefs are important guides when going through the
advance care process. Think about your health care choices in light
of what is important to you. Hospice of McDowell County has a folder
that includes a worksheet on determining what is important to you.
Contact the Family Resource Coordinator for the folder "Isn't
It Time We Talk?*"
- Talking about
end-of-life wishes and choices* with loved ones is a difficult
conversation is start, yet it is the foundation for planning, making
decision and
knowing that your wishes will be honored.
- Talk with your physician, who can help with identifying resources,
care setting options in your community and work with the care providers
to ensure that your wishes and advance care planning are honored.
- Treatment options and decisions can
be difficult.
- The advance care plan should describe your wishes for future care
and guide others who may be making health care decision if you cannot.
The advance care plan should be reviewed, changed or updated over time
to reflect your desires.
- Advance directive forms* can be obtained at
your local
hospice office.
- Comfort care includes attention to the physical, emotional, social
and spiritual need of the individual. Your advance care plan may include
your wishes regarding comfort care.
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