Over 65? It’s Time to Get Your Paperwork in Order

There are two important pieces of paper that you should complete and distribute.  They both fall under the general heading of advanced directives.

The first is the health care power of attorney.  It is a form that you appoint someone to make end-of-life decisions, if and when you are unable.  Give it some thought before you fill it out. Your end of life should be comfortable and meaningful.  It may be helpful to discuss end-of-life issues with the person you designate.

The other document you should have completed is a living will.  In this document you list the procedures you would want at the end of your life.  You may prefer certain medications or CPR to be performed or not. You can also indicate that you prefer to die at home.

Studies have found that individuals who suffer from chronic illnesses are slightly more likely to fill these out than healthy adults, but in either case, less than 50% of Americans have completed these forms.  This statistic is surprising because we are all going to die, the only question is when.

To complete these documents you don’t need an attorney, but you will need a witness or witnesses, as this last requirement differs from state to state.  These documents are readily available online, usually through your state’s Department of Aging. You can change your directives at any time.   Please make sure they reflect your deepest wishes and are appropriate for your state.

Make sure to give the completed documents to your health care providers, especially your doctors and hospitals.