West NY News

Planning for unforeseen emergencies, illnesses, or accidents is essential regardless of age. Dana Corwin, Interim Director at the Office for Aging Services, emphasizes the importance of health directives, financial directives, and end-of-life issues.

The National Institute for HealthCare Improvement highlights "National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) as an annual initiative celebrated on April 16th to encourage and empower people to begin or continue conversations about their wishes for care through the end of life." The day aims to educate individuals on advance care planning and urges them to express their healthcare preferences.

The ElderCare Locator publication "Let's Talk" suggests preparing oneself before discussing these matters with loved ones. It states: “Prior to talking openly with loved ones, it may be useful to gather your thoughts. Remember to get yourself ready. Think about the conversation. It might be useful to write a letter—to yourself, your family or a friend."

Having discussions about advance directives with friends and family is crucial. These include determining responsibilities, preferences, and knowing where important documents are stored. Being prepared ensures easy access to items like insurance cards and medication lists during emergencies.

Resources such as AARP's "Prepare to Care: A Planning Guide for Families" are available online. Power of attorney helps manage property matters while a will specifies belongings passed on after death. Advance directives outline desired care if one becomes significantly ill.

Regularly revisiting these conversations is advised by the Eldercare locator using the 5 “D’s”: every decade, after a loved one's death, divorce, significant diagnosis, or decline in health.

NY Connects offers information on legal resources and personal needs related to health and end-of-life concerns through various means including phone calls or emails. Their statewide telephone number connects callers with local offices by county.