(Snippets from the frontline)
COVID-19: Having an end-of-life discussion, now
There are horror stories around the world. Not enough medical life-saving equipment, with difficult decisions who will live and who will die.
Do you know what you or your loved ones want? Have you had an end-of-life discussion?
Many older adults want everything done if their life is threatened: CPR, chest compressions, blood pressure support, intubation (on a ventilator), fluids, antibiotics, and feedings. Others do not want heroic measures because they have “lived a good life.”
Some have placed their wishes in legal documents including Advanced Directives, Durable Power of Attorney, POLSTs, living wills, DNR/DNI orders, Five Wishes, etc.
If you have not heard of these documents, there is a possibility you have not had an end-of-life discussion.
Ultimately, what do you want when you face end-of-life? If you are incapacitated, who do you want to make medical decisions, and what legal documents will communicate your desires insuring your voice is heard?
During this trying crisis, if you want any say or control, you should have this discussion now.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D.
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