As the Clinical Coordinator at Chapman House part of my role includes the assessment and intake of clients into hospice care. I have the privilege of being the first contact with people enquiring about a loved one coming to hospice. My conversations with clients and their families may be urgent or hopefully preplanned and more comfortable. The level of anxiety amongst the client and family can vary depending on the situation. However, as a rule, I have noticed that the family with some form of end of life planning seems to have less anxiety and stress. Experience and education have led me to be very straightforward in my conversations with families. We do not have the luxury of putting crucial conversations on hold.

There really is no comfortable time to talk about death or our wishes for end of life care. What if I were to ask you “Who would speak for you if you couldn’t speak for yourself?” and “Does this person know your wishes for end of life care?” Could you answer yes? Do these two questions get your attention?

Whether one is young, old, healthy, or ill, one is not exempt from the possibility of dying tomorrow. Advanced care planning is a process of reflection and communication. It is a time for one to reflect on ones values and wishes, and to let people know what kind of health and personal care you would want in the future if you were unable to speak for yourself. Best of all, it is within your control.

A Substitute Decision Maker (or SDM) is an individual chosen to make medical decisions on behalf of another person if they are unable to do so for themselves. It is an important piece of advanced care planning. You may also consider having a Power Of Attorney for Personal Care (POA). A POA is chosen by you. Your POA does not have to be a family member and there is no cost to assign a POA.