For many people, the thought of dying brings up feelings of fear and uncertainty, which may prevent them from finding peace as they face the end of life.
Nearly one in five older Canadians may not experience peace with dying, according to a recent data analysis of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging at McMaster University. The analysis, published earlier this year in PLOS ONE, highlights the importance of end-of-life care and suggests that advance care planning may help people feel more at peace before they die.
The need for effective advance care planning and end-of-life care is clear. As people go through their end-of-life journey, their health and symptoms will change, and it is the responsibility of their healthcare team, family, friends, and care partners to ensure their end-of-life wishes are understood and honoured.
Heather Keller, Schlegel Research Chair in Nutrition and Aging, and her colleagues Dr. Allan Garland and Dr. George Heckman share important and helpful advice about advance care planning to empower you to make informed healthcare decisions and ensure your voice is heard and respected.
What is Advance Care Planning?
Advance care planning is about documenting your wishes and instructions for your present and future health should you be unable to speak for yourself. It ensures your values, preferences, and wishes are respected while providing clarity for your family members, friends, care partners, and healthcare providers.
We understand these conversations can be difficult, but with the right information and support, advance care planning can help you find peace at the end of your life. Below are some tips to consider when making informed health-care decisions.
Choose a substitute decision-maker
A substitute decision maker is a person or persons who will inform the care team about your wishes if you are unable to do so yourself. The substitute decision-maker must understand and represent your wishes for medical care and be able to provide consent for treatments.
Speak to your healthcare team and ask questions
Understanding your medical situation, choices, and what to expect is crucial in helping you determine your preferences. Here are a few questions you may want to ask your healthcare provider:
- What are my current health conditions and concerns?
- What specific medical problems can I anticipate with these conditions?
- What types of treatments and/or procedures are available?
- What will happen if I decide not to have the treatment and/or procedure?
For more information about how to choose a substitute decision maker and questions to ask your healthcare team, read the What is Advance Care Planning Factsheet.
For additional resources about Advance Care Planning, explore the BABEL Approach to Advance Care Planning.