IF YOU were too unwell to speak for yourself, who would speak for you? And what health care decisions would you want them to make?
Australians are encouraged to consider these questions and discuss their future health care preferences with loved ones, as part of National Advance Care Planning Week, April 16-22.
Fact 1: Around half of Australians will not be able to make their own end-of-life medical decisions, yet few people take the active steps required to enable control of their future health care.
Fact 2: A third of Australians will die before the age of 75.
Advance care planning can help people prepare for life's unknowns.
National Advance Care Planning Week challenges all Australians to start conversations with loved ones about what quality of life looks like to them and what they value most.
The initiative empowers people to understand that they have a choice about their end-of-life care and the steps they can take today to ensure their preferences are known and respected. By making your voice heard, you can help make it easier for loved ones who are at times left to make difficult decisions under stressful circumstances.
Fact 3: Research shows that advance care planning can reduce anxiety, depression and stress experienced by families and that they are more likely to be satisfied with their loved one's care.
Get involved!
There are more than 90 events, across every state and territory, being held to raise awareness for National Advance Care Planning Week. Find an event near you. If you are unable to attend be sure to browse the
resources and information on the website, including tips on how to start the conversation.
- To find out more about National Advance Care Planning Week click HERE
- To find an event near you click HERE
- Tips for starting the conversation click HERE
- For more details visit www.advancecareplanning.org.au
