April 16th marks Advance Care Planning Day.

This year, the BC Centre for Palliative Care is highlighting ACP through the question “If not you, who?”

 

Here are some thoughts for reflection about choosing your “Who:”

• Who Do You Trust To Make Healthcare Decisions That Respect Your Wishes?

 

This person can be a family member, friend, child, or a faith leader for example. And it doesn’t have to be just one person. What’s important is to choose one or multiple people you trust to make decisions that align with your wishes, even if they would want something else for themselves.

• Would That Person (Or People) Be Comfortable Making Important Decisions About Your Health Quickly, Or In An Emergency?

 

Not everyone is comfortable in rapidly changing situations, or with making big decisions quickly. The person or people you choose should be comfortable in those types of situations and be able to advocate for your wishes with health care providers.

• Have You Spoken To Them About What Matters Most In Your Life?

 

When someone knows what you value most in your life, they can make more informed decisions about your health care. For example, someone who values their independence most would probably make different care decisions than someone who most values spending quality time with their loved ones.

For more information about Advanced Care Planning, please visit https://www.bc-cpc.ca/all-resources/individuals/acp/acp-resources/

#ACPDay2024