"I Would Have Planned Differently"

While on a visit at a facility, I came upon an elderly woman named Claire. Claire could not remember how long she had been there but she was ready to leave. She felt very alone and had not made many friends. Claire had five children and only one would visit her on a regular basis. Throughout the conversation the one thing Claire would repeat was, "I took care of my mother and father until they died in my home. That was just the expected thing to do. I assumed that my children would do the same for me. Boy was I wrong!" Claire continued to say, "if only I had known, I would have planned for things differently."

Unfortunately, this is a common scenario for many long-term care facility residents. If you have not done so, please speak with your parents or your children about what you or a loved one's wishes are. This can be an uncomfortable conversation for some but a very necessary one.

There are many great resources on line; Google topics like "how to discuss end of life decisions". There is also the new Advanced Directive. This could be used as a guide for discussion while filling it out. However, REMEMBER that the loved one always has the right to change their mind about their care! Be prepared and know that even though documents have been signed and the Advanced Directive has been filled out, the loved one can still change it.

If you would like a free copy of the Advanced Directive, call me, Charise Jensen at 801-468-2853.