The Right Representative
Tackling tough conversations about healthcare power of attorney At some point in people’s lives, they may not be able to make medical decisions for themselves, whether due to a long illness, cognitive function, or an accident. But only one-third of people in the U.S. have a healthcare advance directive, such as a living will or […]
Essential Services
These resources can help you find assistance When setting up aging services, you may have a cloud of questions and concerns. Fortunately, many Chicago-area organizations provide helpful resources for a range of situations. Start your search for assistance by reviewing these service categories to see what type of resources you might need to consider. Review […]
POLST Orders Help Patients Advocate for Their End-of-Life Care
My grandfather did not want to die. From hospital to home, back to hospital and finally to hospice, he angrily fought against the realities of the cancer that would eventually end his life. Many years before his battle with cancer, I remember sitting in the car with him, discussing assisted deaths. I was home for […]
Videos can help you make end-of-life care choices
By Christopher J. Gearon, Kiplinger’s Retirement Report Physicians are often uncomfortable discussing end-of-life care options with terminally ill patients. Even when doctors raise the issue, they may gloss over the details. With little knowledge of their choices, patients often agree to aggressive treatment even when there’s no hope of survival. A series of new videos […]
End-of-Life Care: The Conversation That Can’t Wait
By Heidi Lading Kiec Winston Churchill once said, “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” This quote, found in many leadership books, is applicable to a host of situations, but it’s especially relevant to individuals and their loved ones facing end-of-life […]