Our most recent Learn First seminar focused on Advance Directives, and we are so grateful to everyone who attended! Whether you joined us in person or plan to watch the recording, we hope this information supports you in planning for your healthcare wishes.
Advance directives are more than just paperwork—they are a gift of clarity, ensuring your healthcare preferences are respected while providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Here are some key takeaways from the seminar:
1. Advance Directive Forms
- Work with your legal advisor and physician to complete—and regularly update—your advance directive forms.
- As Kellie with MemoryCare reminded us, your Annual Medicare Physical Wellness appointments are a great time to discuss advance directives.
- If you need DNR or MOST forms, ask for multiple signed originals, as only originals are valid orders.
2. The Gift of Clarity
- Open and honest conversations with your loved ones about your wishes are invaluable.
- Brian, with Forest Law Group, talked about his mother’s thoughtful planning, even including personalized “funeral favors,” and how that brought comfort and laughter during a challenging time.
3. Be Prepared
- Keep copies of your advance directives in accessible places like your refrigerator, car glove box, and with key support team members.
- Prepare a “grab-and-go” crisis kit, including an updated medication list and physician contacts.
4. A Dynamic Process
- Revisit your advance directive plans regularly as your life and circumstances change.
- Select Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA) agents you trust to honor your wishes, and consider designating multiple agents for added flexibility.
Watch the Recording
For those who couldn’t attend, you can watch the recording here: https://youtu.be/mf0PgSXHl-A?feature=shared
Additional Resources
You can also connect with the trusted community providers who participated in the seminar:
- Brian Lawler with Forest Law Group
- Kellie Kendall with MemoryCare
- Julie Moses with Givens Home First Aging in Place
- Dr. Ryan Corte with Northlake Eye
- Pat Wagner with Senior Oral Health Services
- Kim Shaffer with Your Healthy Heart Life
- Paula Kelley with NC Guardian and Case Management
Thank you for prioritizing this important step in your healthcare planning journey. Together, we can ensure your wishes are honored, bringing peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
Let’s continue empowering ourselves with knowledge and preparing for the future.
