We never really know what is around the corner. Most of us think
optimistically and prefer not to think about car accidents, sudden
illness, or other life-threatening situations that could leave us
unable to make decisions about our health care. We would prefer to
think it just won't happen to us because it's uncomfortable to
imagine. Nevertheless, there are a number of reasons why we should
enter the uncomfortable zone and prepare advance directives. First,
for your peace of mind! Knowing your wishes will
be followed will certainly help you breathe easier. Second, for
your family's peace of mind! They could have
conflicting views and be emotionally upset -- Don't make them guess
at what you would want by leaving these difficult decisions for
them.
Advance directives are legal documents pertaining to your health
care wishes when you are unable to make these decisions for
yourself due to illness or impairment. Here are some documents to
consider:
Living Will
Contrary to popular belief, this document has nothing to do with
who gets what after you die. This document spells out what kind of
medical care you want and when. It will state whether you want to
be kept on life support under a number of circumstances. It will
also state if you want a feeding tube if you are terminally ill and
can no longer eat. It essentially will deal with what measures you
want taken to prolong your life or not under various
conditions.
Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR)
If you are no longer breathing or if your heart stops beating,
an attempt to bring you back to life can be taken with
cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This document states whether or not
you want such actions attempted.
Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
In the event you are unable to make decisions due to a loss of
consciousness or severe impairment, someone needs to make decisions
that may not be covered by the more general living will. This
document legally designates a person of your choosing to make
health care decisions on your behalf.
Durable Power of Attorney
This document has nothing to do with your health care; it is
about your property and finances. It legally designates a person of
your choosing to have access to your bank accounts, home, and other
possessions to make decisions and sign documents on your behalf if
you cannot.
You can complete these forms on your own; however, specific
forms and laws vary from state to state. It is a good idea to meet
with an experienced attorney to draw up these documents. He/she can
advise you of any other legal preparations, as well as Medicaid
eligibility and estate planning. The most important steps are
making sure these forms are filled out correctly, signed, notarized
and given to the appropriate people. Your hospitals, doctors, and
family members should have copies of these important documents. We
all know circumstances change (family situations or moving to a new
state) and so can your documents. At any time you can change your
documents by simply drawing up new forms.
Find peace of mind for you and your family by
preparing advance directives, but certainly don't stop thinking
optimistically. We never know what is around the corner -- the next
lottery winner, a clean bill of health, or meeting that special
someone.
Carrie Robertson
Research & Community Education
Chicago Senior Living
Assisted Living
in Chicago