National Healthcare Decisions Day: Resources to Have the Conversation
Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day. The day occurs each year in April. This year it comes at a time when circumstances are encouraging (sometimes forcing) people to think about these decisions more than usual. Those in long-term care know the importance of planning for the end of life but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for these conversations has become even more critical from both the individual wishes and healthcare resource perspectives. No doubt residents, their family members and the care team are thinking about what-ifs. Instead of thinking about them alone, encourage people to talk about it to make their wishes and concerns known.
Numerous resources are available to help guide the process. There is often discomfort when starting the conversation, but most find the process strengthens relationships and increases comfort with end of life. It certainly provides a clearer picture of expectations and allows the opportunity to provide individualized end of life care. Long-term care teams have access to social workers with knowledge and skills to facilitate these conversations. This is the time to let their expertise shine.
Conversations should involve the resident and their designated decision-maker(s). Some may wish to have more family members be part of the conversation. Since family members cannot be present physically right now virtual options can be used.
Don’t stop the discussion of healthcare decisions with residents. Share the resources with the team members too. Encourage them to think about their wishes, communicate those wishes with family and learn the wishes of their family members.
A few of the resources can be accessed through the links below. These sources have general end of life planning guides and COVID-19 specific resources.
One of the greatest gifts that can be given to residents is the opportunity to make their wishes known.
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