Planning For a Crisis
End of life is a topic of conversation that no one really wants to have. Once an emergency happens, it may be too late to get things in order. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for a crisis:
- Talk to a doctor. Start the planning process by talking with their doctor to learn about the types of decisions that could come up in the future, including medical treatments. At this time, gather and fill out the legal forms with your loved one’s wishes. Having these forms completed means that you will be able to gain access to the information that you need in case of an emergency.
- Start the conversation early. Having this conversation early with loved ones can help plan ahead and avoid future conflict. Remember that this is not a one-time conversation, as your feelings may change over time. This makes it even more important to keep your loved ones in the loop and avoiding surprises.
- Get directives in writing. Knowing where important items such as healthcare documents and keys will help avert crisis. Having this information in writing assists family members and loved ones when the time comes to use this information. Having an advanced directive can give your loved one and those close to you added peace of mind.
Most importantly, be patient, kind and loving. Just because this topic may be top of mind for you, it doesn’t mean it is for the rest of the family.
