An Advance Health Care Directive is simply a document prepared by you with written instructions as to what medical procedures you would want in the event that you are unable to speak out for yourself. It is important to know that Advance Directive policies may differ from state to state. Most states have a living will form that you can use to convey what kinds of life-prolonging medical care you want. A living will needs to be signed, dated, and most states require them to be witnessed or notarized (or both). Be sure to check with your state laws and policies.
Advanced Health Care Directives should also include a medical care power of attorney (POA) that designates an individual to be your health care proxy. This would be the person that will speak on your behalf regarding what medical steps will be taken when you are unable to do so. Sometimes a “do not resuscitate” (DNR) order is part of the directive but doesn’t have to be. This order would mean that in the event your heart stops, you will not have CPR performed.
An Advanced Health Care Directive needs to be discussed with your spouse, family, and physician. Keep the original in your personal files with other important documents. Copies can be given to your health care proxy, family members, and have your doctor place it in your medical records.
Bethesda Gardens Assisted Living Phoenix, Arizona is an assisted living and short term care community. We all want our senior years to be as healthy as possible. There are some simple things we can do to help in that effort. Please read our latest blog on why green tea benefits seniors.
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