At Senior Star, we believe that planning ahead is one of the most empowering things a person can do – not just for themselves, but for the people they love. Advance directives are a key part of that plan. They allow older adults to make important medical decisions on their own terms, long before an emergency or health crisis occurs.
While it may be difficult to think about, preparing an advance directive is not about expecting the worst. It’s about protecting your values, ensuring your wishes are respected, and easing the burden on your loved ones when the time comes. In many ways, it’s one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and your family.
What Are Advance Directives?
Advance directives are legal documents that outline your preferences for medical care if you become seriously ill or unable to communicate. The two most common forms are:
- A Living Will, which states what types of medical treatments you want – or don’t want – if you’re facing a life-threatening condition.
- A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, which names a trusted person to make medical decisions for you if you can’t speak for yourself.
Other tools – such as Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders or Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) – can also guide your care more specifically in emergency situations.
Learn more about advance directives from the National Institute on Aging.
Why Advance Directives Matter
Research shows that people are more likely to receive the care they want when they have documented their wishes and had conversations with loved ones. In fact, a study found that family members guessed their loved one’s wishes incorrectly nearly one-third of the time.
Without clear instructions, families may be left to make agonizing decisions during a medical crisis – decisions that often come with guilt, confusion, or conflict. Advance directives offer clarity and peace of mind.
“By planning ahead, you can avoid unnecessary suffering and relieve your caregivers of the decision-making burden during times of crisis or grief.” – Mayo Clinic
How to Get Started: 5 Simple Steps
- Reflect on your values – Consider what quality of life means to you, what treatments you would want, and under what circumstances.
- Choose a healthcare proxy – Appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions if you’re unable to do so.
- Talk with your doctor – Ask about how your health conditions might affect future care and what decisions you may face.
- Complete your documents – You can find free state-specific forms through AARP and the American Bar Association.
- Share your plans – Keep your healthcare proxy, family members, and medical providers informed. Store your documents somewhere safe and accessible.
When and How to Talk to Loved Ones
The most powerful part of advance care planning isn’t the paperwork – it’s the conversation. Talk with your loved ones about what matters to you most. Share your thoughts, listen to theirs, and revisit the discussion after life changes like retirement, a move, or a new diagnosis.
Need help starting the conversation? The Conversation Project offers free guides and tools in multiple languages.
A Living Document for a Life Well Lived
Advance directives are not one-and-done. They are living documents meant to evolve with you. At Senior Star, we encourage residents and families to review their plans annually and update them as needed. That way, your care always reflects your current wishes.
A Gift of Clarity, Peace, and Control
Advance directives don’t take away choices – they ensure you keep them. They give your family the comfort of knowing exactly what you want. And most importantly, they reaffirm your right to age on your own terms.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our team at Senior Star is here to support you with wellness-focused living and resources for aging with dignity and purpose. We invite you to schedule a tour and learn how we partner with families every step of the way.