November 01, 2022
No one wants to think about what the last days of their life will be like, but preparing now can make things much easier for you and your loved ones when that time inevitably comes.
End-of-life planning involves thinking about and making a plan for all the things that you'd like to happen in your final days and beyond. There are medical, financial, emotional, spiritual, and practical concerns to consider, but they all come down to making sure that your wishes are followed.
When you consider what the end of your life will look like, it’s important to prioritize your goals. What types of medical interventions do you want to receive? Would you like to be kept alive as long as possible? Or would you prefer to pass away at home? Are there specific people you’ll want to reconnect with or say goodbye to at that time? As you think about your end-of-life care, try to consider your own emotional state and how you’ll want to reflect on the life you have led.
It’s impossible to know exactly how the final days of your life will play out, so it’s important to have any plans committed in writing. Someone you trust, such as a family member, should be aware of them so they can be given to any doctors who are providing treatment. You may want to consider giving someone power of attorney, which allows them to act on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
A living will is also recommended. This document will spell out your medical treatment preferences and can capture other advanced directives, such as orders around resuscitation. Check the laws in your area; your wishes almost always must be committed to writing, but may or may not need to be reviewed by an attorney as well.
Finally, think about those around you. Even if you’ve planned for your own care, your family and the cultural or spiritual traditions you are a part of are important. Think about how you would want to say goodbye, and if there are any important services or traditions you’d like to partake in. Those you leave behind will naturally grieve your passing, and considering them in your own planning can help make that process a little easier for them.
Planning for your end of life will allow you to leave a legacy. If you have any pets, who will care for them? Do you have any money set aside that a charitable organization or family members would benefit from? With good planning, the people and causes you cared most about during your life will be taken care of long after you’re gone. It can make thinking about end of life easier to know there are pieces of you that will live on.
End-of-life planning can feel depressing and even fatalistic, but it is essential to ensure that your family and caregivers make the decisions you want and that your preferences are respected.
