endoflifeplanning

End-of-life planning is a process of preparing for potential loss of decision-making capacity and end-of-life care by documenting preferences, appointing decision-makers, and arranging financial and personal matters. It aims to ensure that a person’s values guide medical treatment and that obligations are met after death.

Core components include advance directives (living wills) that specify desired medical treatments and resuscitation preferences; a durable power of attorney for health care (healthcare proxy) to designate a decision-maker; a durable power of attorney for finances to manage assets; a will and possibly trusts to distribute assets; designation of an executor; and funeral, burial, or cremation preferences. Organ and tissue donation and instructions for digital assets may also be included.

The process involves conversations with loved ones and health professionals, consultation with attorneys or financial planners, and completion of legal forms according to local laws. It is advisable to review and update documents after major life events or changes in health, and to store copies with a primary care doctor, lawyer, and trusted family members.

In healthcare settings, end-of-life planning may involve access to palliative care, hospice services, and goals-of-care discussions to align treatment with the person’s values, balancing quality of life, symptom management, and potential benefits of interventions.

Benefits include reducing emotional and financial burden on families, avoiding unwanted treatments, and ensuring personal preferences are respected. Common obstacles include reluctance to discuss death, family disagreement, and lack of awareness of available options.