Advance Care Planning
Have you ever considered what would happen if you were taken ill and were unable to make decisions about your treatment or communicate your wishes?
In such situations it is important that those caring for you can make decisions in your best interest. It is important to plan ahead and write down what is important to you for use at a time in the future when you may not be able to tell people your wishes.
An Advance Care Plan is one means of doing this, and gives you the opportunity to talk openly with family, friends, health and social care staff about your concerns or wishes for your care.
Preferences might include medical treatments and where you would like to be cared for, but can also reflect other aspects of your life such as your religious or other beliefs, favourite foods, music and whether you like to bath or shower.
An Advance Care Plan is not legally binding but when those who provide your care are aware that it exists, it must be taken into account if you are unable to make your own decisions at any time.
If you would like further information about Advance Care Planning please ask a member of staff who will be happy to assist you.