Let’s talk turkey. And, no, I don’t mean gobbling like that festive holiday bird. I mean use the holidays, when family members are gathered, to go beyond the “How ’bout them Seahawks?” discussion. Use that precious time to speak honestly and openly about your end-of-life wishes. For example:
• Would I want a feeding tube?
• Would I want to be put on a breathing machine?
• Would I want CPR if my heart or breathing stops?
• What would be important to me if my days were numbered?
“Depressing,” some people groan. “I’ll make those big decisions when the time comes.” It’s human to want to put off thoughts of death and dying. Unfortunately, a health care crisis can happen at any time, at any age. When the unthinkable strikes — a debilitating illness, a devastating accident — families who haven’t had these discussions often are left agonizing over “what would my loved one want?”
Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of preparation:
• Talk about your wishes with those close to you.
• Seek guidance, if desired, from your religious leader.
• Fill out an advance directive to make your wishes known.
WHAT IS AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE? An advance directive is a legal form that tells your doctors what kind care you want if you are too ill to express yourself. One type of advance directive, Power of Attorney for Health Care, is preferred because it makes your care wishes known and also designates a person to make decisions for you if you are unable to speak for yourself.
WHERE DO I FIND A POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTH CARE FORM? Power of Attorney Health Care is a free form, and you don’t need an attorney to fill it out. It’s readily available at your local library or online.
