We’re back with another installment in our series on Advanced Planning. If you’re an Adult Child of an Aging Parent (ACAP), you’re in the right place. Today, we’re focusing on healthcare directives, a topic that often gets lost in the shuffle but is crucial for ensuring your loved one’s wishes are respected in medical situations.

The What and Why of Healthcare Directives

A healthcare directive, also known as a living will, is a legal document that outlines your aging parent’s wishes regarding medical treatment if they’re unable to communicate. It’s the compass that guides the medical team and family members in making informed decisions.

The Two Key Players: Living Will and Healthcare Proxy

• Living Will: This document specifies what types of medical treatment your parent would want—or not want—in certain situations.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney (POA): This is the designated person who makes medical decisions on behalf of your parent when they can’t.
• Take Action: Make sure the healthcare proxy is fully aware of your parent’s wishes as outlined in the living will. The two should be in sync.

The Emotional Quotient

Discussing healthcare directives can be emotionally taxing. It forces us to confront uncomfortable scenarios. But remember, it’s far more uncomfortable to make these decisions in the heat of a medical crisis.

The Conversation Starter

Initiating this conversation is challenging but necessary. Choose a moment when both you and your parent are relaxed and open to discussion. Use phrases like, “I want to make sure we honor your wishes,” to make the conversation less intimidating.

The Urgency of Now

I can’t emphasize this enough—the time to act is now. A healthcare directive isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a peace-of-mind generator for you and your aging parent.

In our next post, we’ll explore the role of technology in eldercare, a topic that’s revolutionizing the way we care for our aging loved ones.

Until then, be proactive and stay compassionate.

Dr. Walt, Your Eldercare Coach and Advocate