(Snippets from the frontline)
COVID-19/BLM: Let your wishes be known
If you are an ill older adult, your age and gray hair might lead to discrimination.
Despite legal protections against taking medical decision-making from you, it still can happen as we are in the midst of a surge, with “rationing” of care on the horizon.
Understanding and utilizing laws are important, and for a senior, there is nothing more crucial than having medical legal paperwork signed and in place.
It starts with a difficult discussion between you and family concerning personal wishes if your health is threatened by illness including COVID-19.
Do you want everything done to save your life, or the other extreme of “Do Not Resuscitate?” This requires a sit-down discussion so others can speak your wishes even if medically your voice is silent.
You don’t need an attorney, just go online. Find Healthcare Power of Attorney, Advanced Directive, POLST, and Do Not Resuscitate orders. Discuss these with your family describing your wishes, while signing and distributing these documents. If you have already done this, make sure you maintain updated wishes.
Your voice can still be heard, even if it is silent.
As hard as it might be, have this difficult discussion now.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D. 
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