Have you ever thought about what would happen if you were unable to make decisions about your own health care? Who would speak for you, and how would they know what you want?
Most of us don’t like to think about the possibility of being seriously ill or injured. However, the reality is that it can happen to anyone at any time. By setting up a health care proxy, you can ensure your loved ones can follow your wishes when it comes to health care when you cannot make those decisions.
What is a health care proxy and why do you need it?
A health care proxy, a type of advance directives that is necessary for purposes of planning for the time when you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself. By creating a health care proxy, you select the people who you trust would act on your wishes in those situations, instead of relying on the court’s discretion to appoint someone for you. It is important to note that a health care proxy is easily amendable and can be changed at any time
You need a health care proxy because it allows you to plan for future medical care in case of incapacity or other disability preventing you from making decisions for yourself. This document is essential in certain situations, such as:
- Being diagnosed with a terminal illness
- Having an illness or condition that could lead to incapacity
- Entering an assisted-living facility or nursing home
- Being admitted to the hospital and being over 65
- Being hospitalized because of an injury
By taking this legal step, you can ensure that only the people you trust will make medical decisions for you. The process involves thinking about future health care scenarios and conversing with agents (who can be your family and friends) about your wishes. While this topic can be a difficult matter to discuss, it’s crucial to be well-informed and prepared for whenever you need it.
Planning for your future
Advance care planning can be crucial for your future and your loved ones. By clarifying your wishes, you’re sparing them from the emotional burden of making difficult decisions without your guidance. Moreover, it allows you to ensure your values and beliefs are respected, even in the most challenging circumstances. By developing an advance health care directive, you’re taking a powerful step towards peace of mind, autonomy and a future that’s genuinely yours.