Yes, it’s that time of year again when I remind you to get your act together with your end of life choices. You won’t die if you talk about death, much the same as you won’t get pregnant if you talk about a pregnancy. National Healthcare Decision Day is always on the day after the oft-dreaded Tax Day….you cannot avoid death or taxes!
I recently had a friend who got sick with a cold and died due to the complications. I am pretty sure she had her wishes in place and her family could rest knowing what she wanted. Grief is hard enough; your loved ones shouldn’t have to second-guess your wishes. Give your family the gift of getting your choices written down. Give your loved ones a copy of it when you talk with them about what you want and why. End of life is no time for guessing.
Let’s do this together. I use several tools and one in particular is helpful if you don’t know how to bring up the subject of your wishes with your family. I know it isn’t easy, in fact it can be very uncomfortable. I like The Conversation Project as a tool for starting those tough talks.
The State of Colorado has a great website with links you can trust: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/palliative-care/advance-care-planning-for-patients-and-families
In Minnesota, check out this site: https://mn.gov/board-on-aging/connect-to-services/legal/advanced-care-planning/advance-directives/
If you don’t have your wishes in writing, now is the time to do it. An easy format is Five Wishes. You can always go back and make changes as your circumstances change. It is important to get this document done based on how you feel today.
I am available in person in the Denver area. We can also get this important work done by phone, and FaceTime or Zoom if you are outside of Denver. I am available to facilitate those discussions with your loved ones if you prefer to have some assistance.