What is advance care planning?

No one likes to think about ageing, end-of-life or the worst-case scenario, but planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones.

In this episode of our podcast Age Old Problems: New Age Care, we discuss Advance Care Planning – why it matters, how to start the conversation, and the peace of mind it brings.

Zara Freeman is a Palliative Care Nurse with Helping Hand and she spoke to host Kate Holland about the benefits of talking early and openly about your current and future care needs. She explains:

• Advance Care Planning: what it is and how beautiful the conversations can be
• The definition of an Advance Care Directive (ADC): how you can get one and who signs off on it
• The things to include in your ADC. Yes, songs for your funeral are a valid inclusion
• Benefits of planning for the individual (this includes nominating a substitute decision-maker in case of incapacity)
• Benefits of planning for the family (less guessing and decision making at a stressful time)
• Advice for getting the conversation started. (Relaxed and casual is good!)