Ethical Decision Making At The End Of Life
|
One of the most challenging forms of decision making we are face with is making decisions and plans for the end of life. This is a subject that many of us would rather ignore, but often confronting our fears and planning for the inevitable is a good thing to do, and can be extremely helpful, not only to loved ones and those who will be involved in organizing our affairs but ourselves when we are at our most vulnerable. |
Caregiver.org offer a comprehensive fact sheet that includes the issues that relate to the end of one’s life, and point out other areas for consideration such as what financial and medical decisions may be important, looking into the types of care options you would be comfortable with, advance directives such as a "living will" or "Do Not Resuscitate" Order (DNR), frequently asked questions and links to useful forms and instructions. They list the specific issues that relate to end of life as:
- Who do you want to make decisions for you if you are incapable?
- Would you wish to be resuscitated?
- If you were seriously or terminally ill, would you want to be at home or would you prefer to be hospitalized?
- Payment of care. Are you covered adequately by your insurance?
- The processes involved with administrating death. Are your loved ones prepared?
Caregiver.org suggests the first step to making these decisions is overcoming the fear of end of life, and opening up discussions with those involved, such as your loved ones, your doctor and your lawyer. Although approaching a subject like end of life can be a confrontational process, often peace of mind can outweigh any feelings of discomfort. The knowledge that the process has been made easier for loved ones can be extremely reassuring.
More Articles :
 |
