When we think about living well, we often focus on healthy habits like eating right, staying active, and managing stress. But one important step is often overlooked: advanced care planning. It ensures your healthcare wishes are respected and gives your loved ones clarity in uncertain times.
What is Advanced Care Planning?
Advanced care planning means deciding now what kind of medical care you would want if you couldn’t speak for yourself in the future. It includes two key actions:
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- Creating an Advance Directive – a legal document that outlines your healthcare wishes and names a Health Care Representative to speak on your behalf.
- Appointing a Power of Attorney (POA) – someone you trust to make healthcare or financial decisions if you are unable.
These tools help ensure your values guide your care and relieve your loved ones from making tough decisions alone.
Oregon’s Advance Directive
In Oregon, the Advance Directive includes two main parts:
1.Appointment of a Health Care Representative – someone you choose to make medical decisions if you can’t.
2. Healthcare Instructions – your choices about life-sustaining treatment and comfort care.
This document can be changed or canceled at any time. It gives peace of mind to you, your family, and your healthcare team.
The Role of Power of Attorney
A Healthcare POA makes medical choices aligned with your values, while a Financial POA manages your finances and legal affairs. Choosing someone you trust is essential—they become your advocate when you cannot speak for yourself.
Guardianship in Klamath County
Klamath County is seeing a rising need for guardians due to increasing rates of dementia and other cognitive diseases. Many adults face decision-making challenges without family or friends to help. While public guardians serve some of these individuals, resources are limited.
This has created a growing need for private guardians—trained individuals appointed by the court to help vulnerable adults manage their healthcare, living arrangements, and finances.
Community Call to Action
If you’re someone with time, compassion, and a desire to help, consider becoming a private guardian or volunteering with a local guardianship program. Your support can protect the dignity and well-being of those who have no one else.
Start the Conversation
Advanced care planning isn’t just about legal forms—it’s about open conversations with your loved ones. Talk about your values, your wishes for medical care, and what matters most to you.
Tips to get started:
- Share thoughts about quality of life and medical treatments.
- Talk about fears or concerns.
- Invite questions and encourage loved ones to be part of your planning.
Why Plan Ahead?
- Peace of mind and personal control
- Less stress for family during emergencies
- Focus on comfort and dignity
- Clear legal guidance
Take the First Step
Advanced care planning is a gift—to yourself and your family. Life is unpredictable, but planning ahead puts you in charge. Start today by having a conversation, writing down your wishes, and speaking to a healthcare or legal professional.
