They say that of the five senses, smell is the one that connects us to memories. But for me, smell keeps me in the present. Hearing music, however, transports me and connects me to the past—to the joys, triumphs and bittersweet moments in my life. I remember making mixed tapes filled with songs that were meaningful to me as a young woman in the 70s and 80s. I had the “I broke up with my first love” tape, my “senior…
Life can change quickly. Conversations we thought we would have time for often go unspoken. We can maintain control if we plan ahead, think about our goals and values around our healthcare and treatment options, and communicate and document these wishes. Choosing someone who can communicate your healthcare wishes to your medical providers can ensure that even if you are not able make healthcare decisions directly, there is someone who can be your voice for decisions. It is difficult to…
We’ve compiled a list of resources to help all Arizonans think through, discuss, and prepare advance directives—for themselves and for others. Download a PDF of this list here. You can access advance directives forms at no cost in several locations. Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association (AzHHA) | azhha.org/tlc_forms Pre-hospital Medical Care Directive POLST Living Will (English &Spanish) AZ Health Care Power of Attorney with Optional Mental Health Authority Short Form (English &Spanish) Arizona Attorney General Life Care Planning Packet |…
The truth is that those who assist others with completing advance care directives have no higher completion rate than the public. Why is that, and why is it imperative to change that statistic? Do not be a statistic; instead, be at the forefront of advance care planning and be an example: Start with your own. Advance care planning is for everyone. Don’t perpetuate the myth that Advance Directives are for the elderly by not completing your own. It’s a myth…
When working through advance care planning, you’ll may encounter some unfamiliar words. Or you may wonder exactly what they mean in the context of advance care planning. As you read through various materials, refer to the list of terms below for clarity on commonly used terms. Advance Care Planning Planning for healthcare you want to receive if you are facing a medical crisis.These are your decisions to make based on your personal values, preferences and discussions with your loved ones.…
