Doing some homework now will ensure that your vital health history is delivered at all points of care, including in emergencies. This will reduce errors due to missed information, especially regarding allergies and medications.

Advance Care Planning (ACP) is preparation for a time when you are not able to speak for yourself due to serious injury, illness, or advancing cognitive decline. This is not just for older adults. It is preparation for all adults of all ages, no matter their state of health. ACP is an umbrella term for ongoing conversations and documentation about your values, beliefs, and preferences for care.

Vulnerable adults, especially those with cognitive decline or dementia, must have someone to advocate for them. Putting a Representation Agreement in place is vital before losing capability… even if you are the spouse or the adult child.

Choosing your Substitute Decision Maker is the most important step in Advance Care Planning. Not intentionally and legally naming your person can cause incredible pain and discord so massive that it can tear families apart, and can mean you don’t receive the care and treatment you need and deserve.

Regardless of age and health status, every adult should strongly consider formally naming a trusted person (spouse, family member, friend) in a Representation Agreement to speak for them in the case of serious illness, injury, or cognitive decline.

An Enduring Power of Attorney is highly recommended to take care of Financial and Legal affairs. The health Representative can also be the EPOA: but it requires two separate documents.

Advance Directives is the term used in BC for a legally binding document that others must follow when you are not able or are incapable of speaking for yourself. This article is an outline of the differences between Living Wills and Letter of Wishes for Medical Care.