Documenting Your Wishes: Why It’s Important for Your Future and Peace of Mind.
By Courtney Hogenson, RN – Your Trusted Guide for Elder Care, Concierge Nursing & Nurse Entrepreneurship
As we go through life, there’s one essential aspect of planning that too many people overlook—documenting our wishes. Whether you’re young and healthy or approaching your golden years, having your desires clearly laid out is crucial to ensuring your loved ones and healthcare providers can honor your preferences. Here’s why documenting your wishes is not just about practicality, but also about protecting your future, your dignity, and your peace of mind.
Why Is Documenting Your Wishes So Important?
Life is unpredictable, and circumstances can change in an instant. By taking the time to document your wishes now, you ensure that important decisions about your healthcare, end-of-life care, and personal assets are in line with your values. Without clear documentation, these choices may fall to family members who are left to guess what you would have wanted.
A few key reasons why this step is vital:
Preventing Family Conflict: Without clearly outlined wishes, family members may disagree on the best course of action, which can create tension during emotionally charged times.
Ensuring Your Wishes Are Respected: You have the right to make decisions about your healthcare, financial matters, and personal affairs. When those choices are documented, they are legally protected.
Reducing Stress for Loved Ones: When your wishes are clear, it lifts the burden from your loved ones, who would otherwise be forced to make difficult decisions on your behalf.
What Should You Include in Your Documentation?
There are a few key documents that can help make your wishes clear and legally binding. Here’s a breakdown of the most important ones:
Advance Healthcare Directive (AHCD):
An AHCD is essential for anyone who wants to take control of their healthcare decisions. This document allows you to name a healthcare proxy, someone you trust to make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to do so yourself. It also details your preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation, ventilation, and feeding tubes.
“One of the best gifts you can give to your loved ones is a clear guide for your healthcare decisions.” – Courtney Hogenson
Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA):
A DPOA gives a trusted person the authority to manage your financial and legal matters if you become incapacitated. This could include paying bills, managing property, and handling any legal documents.
Living Will:
This document outlines your desires regarding end-of-life care. It allows you to express whether you want aggressive treatments or prefer to focus on comfort care in your final days.
Will or Trust:
Creating a will or trust ensures that your assets—such as property, savings, and personal items—are distributed according to your wishes. This prevents legal battles and ensures your loved ones are taken care of.
POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment):
A POLST is a medical order that communicates your preferences for life-sustaining treatments to your healthcare providers. This form is particularly useful for those with serious illnesses or frailty.
The Emotional Impact of Documenting Your Wishes
While documenting your wishes can feel overwhelming or even uncomfortable, it’s one of the most compassionate actions you can take for yourself and your loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is clearly outlined allows you to focus on living life to the fullest without the fear of leaving behind unanswered questions.
How to Get Started
It’s never too early to start documenting your wishes. Whether you’re navigating elder care, managing a chronic illness, or simply planning for the future, it’s crucial to put everything in writing. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Have Open Conversations: Talk to your loved ones about your wishes and encourage them to do the same. Open communication ensures that everyone is on the same page.
Consult Professionals: Work with an estate planner, attorney, or healthcare advocate to create legally binding documents that reflect your desires.
Revisit Regularly: Life changes, and so might your wishes. Make sure to revisit your documents every few years or after any major life changes (like marriage, childbirth, or a new diagnosis).
Every individual and family is unique, and your documentation should reflect that. Together, we’ll create a plan that is tailored to your specific circumstances and wishes.
Documenting your wishes is about more than just legal paperwork—it’s about protecting your future and ensuring your values are respected. Taking the time to outline your healthcare and financial preferences now will bring you peace of mind and spare your loved ones from making difficult decisions without guidance.
At the heart of it all, you deserve to have control over your life’s most important choices. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start documenting your wishes today. If you’re ready to take this important step, I’m here to guide you through the process. Whether you need help creating an advance healthcare directive or discussing options with your family, I’m just a phone call away. Let’s make sure your wishes are documented and your peace of mind is secured.
– Courtney Hogenson, RN, CMC, ALNC
Your Trusted Guide for Elder Care, Concierge Nursing, & Nurse Entrepreneurship