Advance Planning: The Medical Perspective
Source: Mature Messenger Newsletter, a publication of Action for Older Persons
4/20/2010
On January 27, 2010, Dr. Shawn Berkowitz addressed a standing-room-only crowd at Northminster Presbyterian Church, Endwell, NY. He was one of many experts who spoke during AOP's Preparing Now Seminar Series, an annual event meant to increase public awareness about the importance of planning ahead for the end of life.
From the medical perspective of a geriatric physician, Dr. Berkowitz spoke candidly about when, why, and how decisions about withholding – or not withholding – life sustaining treatments become important. He shared valuable information about he technical processes of artificial nutrition and hydration as well as the success rates of CPR. Through his thorough, professional, and insightful presentation, Dr. Berkowitz gave his audience a rare gift – more than an hour of undivided attention and question-answering about end-of-life considerations.
While it's unlikely any of us will get that same amount of time and attention during your next doctor's office visit, it's important we seek out answers to our questions – and consult the experts – to make informed decisions about he care we want at the end of life. Committing yourself to attend AOP's next Preparing Now Seminar Series is a good plan; however, there's a lot you can do before then:
Check out available resources on the Internet, at your local library or AOP's lending library, to research the implications of different life sustaining treatments.
Attend an AOP Advance Planning Workshops.
Call AOP to schedule a free appointment with an Advance Planning for End of Life (APEL) volunteer to learn ways to make your wishes known to both your family and your doctor. We can eve help you complete your advance directive forms – the documents necessary to ensure someone you trust is allowed to make medical decisions on your behalf should such the need arise.
And most importantly, simply opening a discussion with your family about your wishes and your intentions for end-of-life care is a great place to start.
