Discussing advance directives can be a difficult conversation to have with anyone, particularly our elderly loved ones. However, your loved one is more likely to get the care they want if decisions are made in advance. That means difficult conversations are necessary in order to ensure that our loved ones are comfortable and confident in the care they will receive. Advance directive planning also offers family members peace of mind. Medical decisions and wishes will be legally documented should something happen suddenly.
This article will discuss what typically makes up advance directive planning, as well as how to broach this difficult topic with your loved ones and what to discuss.
Advance Directives
An advance directive is a combination of documents containing instructions about end-of-life medical treatment. Typically this includes two parts. First is a living will, where instructions for end-of-life care are outlined. Advance directives also include a durable power of attorney for health care, which legally names someone to make decisions on behalf of your loved one should they be unable to make those decisions themselves.
Other documents included in an advance directive might include instructions about organ donation or a Do Not Resuscitate order. A DNR tells healthcare workers your loved one does not want extreme life-saving measures performed if their heart or breathing stops. Without an advance directive, state law will determine who makes decisions on behalf of your loved one.
Starting the Conversation
There are many ways to broach this difficult topic with your loved one. Remember: having this conversation sooner rather than later will bring everyone peace of mind. Even if they're uncomfortable, it's important to have the conversation. You can also make it easier to start by using current events, TV shows, medical checkups, or talking about the situation of someone you know. In fact, you might also use yourself as an example. If your loved one is still uncertain, ask them to think about these issues so you can discuss them later. Having multiple conversations is okay.
What to Talk About
There are also many resources for structuring a conversation about advance directive planning that can help guide you through the process. Center the conversation on your loved one's values and ask lots of questions. Who would they want to make decisions for them if they were unable to make decisions for themselves? What does a good day look like at the end of their life? What concerns do they have about medical treatments? These kinds of questions help clarify their wishes and give you insight into what your loved one finds important. Questions like these will help both of you feel confident in creating an advance directive.
Preparing the Advance Directive
To formally create an advance directive, you'll likely need to speak with an attorney. The durable power of attorney for health care is a legal document that may need special preparation, depending on your loved one's wishes.
Senior Helpers Provides Compassionate Caregiving Services
Although starting an advance directive planning can be challenging, it is worth the effort. Your loved one will have confidence in their medical care and that a trusted person will make decisions on their behalf. You will have confidence knowing you're acting in accordance with your loved one's wishes. Start the conversation, ask your senior about their values and desires, and prepare an advance directive.
If you have questions about end-of-life caregiving services, contact Senior Helpers Lake St. Louis today. We provide professional end-of-life support care alongside local hospice centers in and around the Lake St. Louis, Bowling Green, and Warrenton areas.