Thinking about care decisions in advance

by | Nov 6, 2017 | Estate Planning |

Estate planning covers decisions about financial matters and the creation of one’s legacy. it also covers immediate and important decisions about health care and a person’s preferences for the end of life. Advance care planning is not something that should be left up to chance. People need to understand what they do and do not want regarding medical treatments as they age.

Discussing an unpleasant situation

One of the main reasons people put off estate planning is that the discussions necessary for a complete plan are not always pleasant. It is hard to discuss whether or not you want to be resuscitated without picturing your own demise. Few people find that an enjoyable experience.

The problem is that both aging and death happen, whether we want them to or not. You can’t avoid the problem by ignoring it. Without having these discussions and making your wishes known in advance, you could be opening yourself up to unwanted pain, and putting your family in a terrible spot at the same time.

Appropriate measures

Quality of life is not something to be ignored. Many people would prefer not to be kept alive if they are unable to speak, move, or understand their situation. Others prefer that doctors perform any and all actions possible to keep them alive. There is no single answer that works for everyone. Your wishes should be known to all parties before the time comes to make those decisions.

Estate planning is not about contemplating death. Estate planning is about protecting yourself and your ability to decide what you want done with your life and your assets.