Each of us will eventually be with a family member living out their last days on earth. Knowing we have carried out the end-of-life choices the way they planned can bring comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Even if you have gone to an estate planning attorney, the papers signed in the large packet of documents are impersonal and not individualized to your end-of-life choices. Five Wishes is the first living will for individuals 18 and older that addresses personal, emotional, and spiritual needs, as well as medical wishes.
Completing the Five Wishes document is a simple way for a person to express his or her end-of-life desires; this can be a true blessing to family members when the time comes. It is an accepted legal document in 42 states.
Wish 1 allows you to choose the person you want to make healthcare decisions for you if you can’t make them for yourself.
Wish 2 allows you to choose what type of medical treatment you want and what type you don’t want.
Wish 3 allows you to choose how comfortable you want to be and discusses pain, personal care, and hospice care options.
Wish 4 allows you to choose how you want people to treat you, such as allowing church members to visit.
Wish 5 allows you to share what you want your loved ones to know. This section has the potential to be part of your legacy. It lists many basic statements concerning a meaningful life, forgiveness, how you want to be remembered, and funeral wishes. You may even attach a separate piece of paper to list anything you may want to say to your loved ones.
Your Five Wishes document may be ordered online at fivewishes.org. This website contains additional tools for end-of-life planning, including a DVD, conversation guide, and family packages.
The Five Wishes DVD may be checked out through the Parish Nurse office. Call 239-992-3233 for hours and availability
