Is advance care planning on your bucket list?
There is no statistical proof that doctors enjoy a better quality of life before death than the rest of us, but research indicates they are better planners.
An often-cited study published in 2003, of physicians who had been medical students at Johns Hopkins University, found that they were more likely than the general public to have created advance directives, or living wills, which lay out specific plans for care if one is ever unable to voice their health-care preferences.
It is a process of reflection and communication that can take place across your lifespan and is important for people of all ages. It is a time for you to reflect on your beliefs, values and wishes and it is a time to let others know your health care and personal preferences if you are ever unable to speak for yourself.
Preparing an advance care plan is about making decisions and having conversations with loved ones and other health, legal and financial professionals letting them know your personal preferences before you find yourself in a crisis situation.
Ted Hicks, Comox Valley Hospice volunteer, shares that when it comes to advance care planning, "It’s never too early, but it can be too late."
In recognition of National Advance Care Planning Day on April 16, Comox Valley Hospice and Berwick Comox Valley are holding events on that day.
An Advance Care Planning Educational Open House takes place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and will include videos, resources and conversations. You can expect to come away with information, suggestions and tools for starting the conversation with your family and friends and how to develop your own advance care plan.
From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the heARTful Expressions Reception and Art Exhibit celebrates the many ways people may explore issues related to advance care planning and end-of-life conversations. Live music, refreshments and draw prizes will round out the day’s celebrations.
As space is limited, please register by contacting the Comox Valley Hospice Society at 250-339-5533, or visit the online event registration site at www.eventbrite.com/e/national-advance-care-planning-day-2014-tickets-7866164911.
For more information, visit www.advancecareplanningcv.ca.
— Comox Valley Hospice Society