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Community Corner

Your Life, Your Wishes. Advance Care Planning

While most Americans say they would prefer to live through the end of


their lives at home, surrounded by friends and family, the reality is the exact


opposite. More than 70 percent of Americans die in hospitals or nursing homes.




Studies show that when people age 65 and older plan in advance with


their doctors they are much more satisfied about their preferences for care


through the end of their lives. They’re less anxious, feel more in control, and


trust that their physicians understand their wishes. 






As part of our commitment to quality care that honors each person’s


preferences, Edmonds Senior Center is offering a free two hour conversation


about advance care planning.





Have you had “the conversation’?






The best time to make choices about the care you want to receive


through the end of your life is before you are diagnosed with a serious


illness. Having conversations with your family and loved ones is the best way


to ensure that your goals and wishes are understood and will be honored.






By attending this class, you’ll


learn
:


  • How


    your values and beliefs can guide your personal choices regarding medical care


    through the end of life.






  • How


    to select the best person to speak for you in the event that you are unable to


    speak for yourself.






  • What


    life sustaining treatments may be offered to you at the end of life and the


    pros and cons of each treatment.






  • What


    forms you need to fill out and share with your doctor to document your choices.



Recording your choices







Once you have the conversation, bring the forms you’ll receive at the class


to your primary care provider so they become a permanent part of your medical


record.





Because space is limited, please call (425) 774-5555 register.





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About this training


This training is part of a palliative care initiative


sponsored by the Snohomish County Health Leadership Coalition, composed of


chief executives from local business, education, healthcare, human services and


the faith community committed to improving health, healthcare costs, economic


vitality and prosperity in Snohomish County. Learn more at www.snocohealthleadership.org.











Find out what's happening in Edmondswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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