- What if a day comes when you are unable to make decisions for yourself?
- What if you are suddenly taken ill, are involved in an accident or lose your ability to think clearly or independently?
- Do your closest family members or friends really know your wishes?
A Living Will is a planning document for use by adults at all life stages. It helps you to think about discuss and record your preferences regarding all aspects of your end of life care. It encourages you to ensure that those closest to you are aware of these preferences. A time may come when you are unable to express your wishes and preferences. By using a Living Will your wishes will be clear to those caring for you or managing your affairs.
MyVita.life are proud to advocate the Irish Hospice Foundation “Think Ahead” Form and will make donation to the Irish Hospice Foundation for each one used.
There is no obligation to fill out the complete form; it is entirely voluntary, and you should only fill out those sections you are comfortable with. The most important information you can provide includes details about your identity (name, address and so on) and who you would like to be contacted in the event of an emergency. If you decide to complete the entire form, we encourage you not to fill it all out at once. Instead, take your time and complete it over several sittings, taking time to think about it and speak to others if you wish.
Medical care is a very personal thing. Our preferences are shaped by our individual beliefs and values. Unless you expressly record your care preferences, your family members or those caring for you may not know your wishes, and disagreements may occur. YOU can provide guidance by ‘Thinking Ahead’. Section 2 of this form focuses on your health care preferences. You can make an Advance Healthcare Directive and it is not necessary to obtain legal advice to do so. To create an Enduring Power of Attorney, you do need legal advice. If you cannot afford to pay for legal services, you can apply for free legal aid to do this.
Your GP or treating doctor will be central to your care. We encourage you to discuss your preferences with them and to leave a copy of Section 2 with your doctor when completed. However, in an emergency situation, the doctor treating you may be unfamiliar with you, or your care preferences. In those situations, a clear written record of your wishes can be very useful.
Finally, there are many different factors, such as age and illness, that can change your preferences over time. If you change your mind, you can update your wishes on the form at any time. Regular updating of your wishes is important particularly should you experience a medical emergency or life limiting illness. For that reason, we encourage you to view this form as a document that can change to reflect your preferences. Therefore, you should review your Think Ahead Form either annually, or as often as is appropriate for you and remember, MyVita are only a phonecall or email away!