FYI: Health Care Proxy - New York State

Through the unfortunate events that have developed with Janet and Keith, it's important to educate yourself and your spouse.

Here's a link w/thorough information about a health care proxy.

New York State - Health Care Proxy Information & Form

I'm going to add some information since I prepare these almost weekly for my clients.

Make sure your instructions are specific. Don't just check the box that says your proxy knows what your wishes are. It will only lead to arguments later.

When considering whether or not you want 'life saving measures' to be taken think about all that it means. It means not only a respirator, or a ventilator, but also food and water. It may also mean having your heart restarted in the event of a heart attack (from which you can in fact recover). Keep in mind that the pain response is very powerful. While you might not want to be hooked up to a ventilator, you may want palliative care (pain medication) to keep your body comfortable. One thing that isn't often mentioned (if at all) is that the body cannot properly digest and circulate pain medication in the absence of water. Even if you don't want a feeding tube, you should make sure your instructions include hydration. Try to define the time when you want treatment to stop/start. This might be something to discuss with a doctor since there are different stages of brain inactivity/activity.

Last, but by no means least, make sure that the person you pick to be your proxy knows you have choosen them. Make sure to discuss your choices fully, and that whoever you pick will be ready, willing, and able to carry out your wishes if the time comes.

Thanks so much!

(You're always on top of everything )

Christine what we do without you