Advance Care Planning

At any time, our health can change and difficult decisions need to be made regarding our future. Rather than leaving these decisions to happenstance, it is important to think about, plan and communicate our wishes to our family and health care providers.

Advance Care Planning (ACP) acts as a compass for navigating future medical decisions. This process empowers individuals to articulate their values, goals, and preferences concerning their future health care, especially in scenarios where they might not be able to communicate their wishes and someone else is needed to make those decisions.

An ACP can be written down or simply verbally communicated with a substitute decision maker. An Advance Care Plan can guide a substitute decision maker if that person is asked by a health care provider to make treatment decisions on behalf of someone who is unable to express themselves (for example, if they are unconscious after surgery).

Why Is It Necessary to Plan Ahead?

According to the 2021 Advance Care Planning Canada National Poll, 93% of people in Canada believe it’s important to talk about their future wishes for their care with family and friends. Yet only 1 in 5 people have a plan.  Some individuals think they will wait until they are older to plan ahead, however it’s ideal to begin having these conversations when you are younger and in good health.

Here’s why planning ahead matters:

• Maintains Control Over Your Healthcare: You get to decide the kind of care you want (or don’t want), especially if you’re unable to communicate this in the future.
• Prevents Unwanted Treatments: Without guidance, others may choose all medical interventions, even if they don't align with your values or wishes.
• Reduces Stress and Conflict: When your preferences are clearly documented, it removes the burden from family members who might otherwise have to make difficult choices in uncertain moments.

How Does Planning Ahead Support Your Family?

Advance care planning isn't just about you—it’s a gift to your family!

• Eases Emotional Burden: Knowing your wishes helps loved ones feel more confident and less anxious when decisions need to be made.
• Avoids Family Disagreements: Clear instructions reduce the risk of conflict among family members who may have different opinions about your care.
• Strengthens Communication: The process encourages meaningful conversations with family, helping everyone understand your values and priorities.

What Are the Barriers to Planning Ahead?

Despite its benefits, many people delay or avoid advance care planning. Common barriers include:

• Discomfort Talking About Death: It’s natural to avoid thinking about challenges relating to health and end-of-life, but open conversations are essential to avoid uncertainty and possible misunderstanding between people requiring care and their family or friends.
• Procrastination: Many believe they have time to deal with it later—until it’s too late.
• Lack of Awareness: Some are unaware that planning tools and resources exist and can make having conversations easier. Check out this link to the Online Advance Care Planning Workbook here: https://www.advancecareplanningontario.ca/
• Cultural or Personal Beliefs: In some communities, discussing death is taboo, or there may be a belief that family should make decisions without formal guidance.

Taking the First Step

Advance care planning doesn’t need to be complicated. Start an informal conversation by reflecting on what matters most to you—quality of life, independence, dignity—and talk to your family members about those values.

How Therapy Can Help

Through therapeutic support, individuals can explore their fears and hopes for the future in a safe and supportive environment. A therapist can aid people articulate their values and preferences and help them manage the stress of decision making. Sometimes clients find it helpful to receive input on how to have these difficult conversations with their family and friends.

Therapists can provide insight into advocating for oneself or a family member navigating the health care system. Going through these changes can be difficult and therapists can provide resources and support to make the transition smoother.

Final Thought:

As a therapist who supports adults on their aging journey, I have supported both clients and my own family members with making these difficult decisions. Changes to one’s health can be stressful for you and your family and can cause you to worry making it difficult to fully enjoy your life. Planning ahead isn't about fearing the future—it's about preparing for it with confidence. By making decisions now, you take control of your healthcare journey and give your family the comfort and assurance knowing they are honoring your choices.