Thinking about the future can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves healthcare decisions. However, planning ahead ensures your loved ones know and can respect your wishes, even if you cannot speak for yourself.
Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to outline your preferences for medical care in advance. They provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones, making sure they hear your voice during critical moments. What are the types of advance directives you should be considering? Explore more below.
A Living Will Details Your Treatment Preferences
A living will is a written statement that details the types of medical treatments you would or would not want to receive in an end-of-life situation. This document becomes active if you are terminally ill, permanently unconscious, or otherwise unable to communicate your own decisions.
It specifically addresses your preferences regarding life-sustaining procedures, such as mechanical ventilation, tube feeding, and resuscitation. A living will gives your medical team and family a clear roadmap, ensuring your wishes guide your care.
A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare Designates a Proxy
A durable power of attorney for healthcare, also known as a healthcare proxy or agent, helps you appoint a person you trust to make decisions for you should you become incapable. Unlike a living will that outlines specific treatments, this document gives your designated proxy the authority to make a wide range of healthcare choices.
It’s vital to select someone who understands your values and is willing to advocate for your wishes. This person will communicate with your doctors and make decisions that align with your best interests.
A DNR Order Specifies CPR Wishes
A DNR, also known as the do-not-resuscitate order, is a specific medical instruction that tells healthcare providers not to perform anything, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), should your heart or breathing stops. You and your doctor must create this order together.
A DNR is typically for individuals with a terminal illness or people who feel the potential burdens of CPR outweigh the benefits. This directive is straightforward and solely focused on one specific medical intervention, ensuring your wishes about resuscitation are clearly understood.
A POLST Form Translates Wishes Into Medical Orders
A Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form is another type of advance directive but is more comprehensive than a DNR. It converts your treatment preferences into actionable medical orders that healthcare professionals must follow. A POLST form is generally for individuals with a serious illness or advanced age. It covers your preferences for the following scenarios:
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Medical interventions, such as comfort measures, limited additional interventions, or full treatment
- Artificially administered nutrition
You, or your proxy, create the POLST with your doctor, and it travels with you across different care settings, ensuring continuity in your medical care.
Plan for Your Future Today
Taking the time to create the type of advance directive you feel most comfortable with will provide clarity and direction for your loved ones and medical team. It’s a compassionate step that ensures your values guide your care journey.
As you consider your options, remember that our end-of-life planning services can offer guidance and support, helping you navigate these important decisions with confidence. By planning today with Soulistic Hospice, you give yourself and your family the invaluable gift of peace of mind for tomorrow. Reach out today to learn more.
