Advance Care Planning Week: A timely reminder on starting a conversation

National Advance Care Planning Week is from 17 to 23 March. It is a timely reminder ‘now’ is the perfect time to provide retirement villages residents with access to information and support to guide them to having a conversation with their loved ones and health providers on the choices that matter most.

Advance care planning is a voluntary process. One that provides peace of mind. It might seem like an uncomfortable subject, but once people understand it, seven out of ten feel positive about it.

Take a moment to reflect on your future healthcare choices. Can you see the emotional burden your loved ones might feel? Wouldn’t you want to give them confidence they are making the right decisions for you.

Where to begin?

The best way to begin is with a simple conversation.

Use Advanced Care Planning Week to draw attention to the resources available through Advanced Care Planning Australia.  These resources will encourage residents to speak with family, friends, and doctor about their values, beliefs, and healthcare preferences.

Health and care professionals should also encourage these discussions when patients are medically stable. Key moments to begin the conversation include:

• When discussing treatment options and goals
• During regular health assessments
• Following a major diagnosis or change in health status
• When moving into residential aged care

The best time to start is now

It’s never too early to start advance care planning—but it can be too late. Everyone’s wishes are unique and advance care planning ensures personal choices are respected.

The conversation doesn’t have to happen all at once. It can be ongoing, with updates to reflect any changes in preferences an circumstances over time.

Check out the resources on the website. Perhaps include them in your next Village Newsletter. These are important discussions. The best time to start is now.

To learn more about this topic, see DCM Institute’s knowledge centre topic.