When you are creating your living will and advance directives, it is important to have open and honest communication with your family and, especially, your healthcare agent. Remember, your healthcare agent is the person you are trusting to see that your specific end-of-life medical care and support are respected and carried out. But, having those conversations can be difficult, especially at first. So, we have some tips to help start those conversations.
We know that this can be scary. Facing any sort of end-of-life conversation can be. But, you do not want to wait for a medical crisis, or even when you are sick or older. It is much easier, on everyone, to have conversations when you are healthy and not during a stressful time. Sometimes you can broach the subject through:
A good example for starting the conversation is:
“I know that this is not easy, but if I get sick or have an accident and I am unable to communicate, I would like to share with you what would be important to me so you can be my decision maker.”
Then, talk about your definition of quality of life and what it means to you. Be prepared to have the conversation again, as it can be tough on the other person, too.
When creating your Healthcare Directive Action Plan, it is important to have conversations with others. And, doing it while you can, is very important. Plus, you will have an opportunity to sit down and have real, meaningful conversation with someone you trust. This can go a long way in deepening your relationship with that person while providing peace of mind for you and your family. Start planning your Healthcare Directive Action Plan today.
