Saying goodbye to loved ones, whether expected or not, is a difficult part of life for everyone involved. Those suffering and their families many times experience grief throughout the decision-making process and afterwards when some decisions may lead to a lifetime of regret by those surviving. The importance of starting the conversation cannot be stressed enough, even for youthful individuals because unexpected crises, sadly, do happen. For all these reasons and more, National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD week) was created to recognize the importance and encourage families to have these conversations.
This year NHDD week is April 16- 22. We encourage everyone to talk about what their personal wishes are for their end of life planning and decide who they would like to be involved with the process. It is always recommended to write these advance care plans down and to have them in an accessible place where your loved ones know where they are to refer to when the time comes. You can learn more and get helpful tips and conversation starters at www.nhdd.org.
Western Wisconsin Health’s Social Services Department aids all patients and families in advance care planning, financial resources and referrals, and crisis support. If you would help starting end of life conversations for yourself or loved ones, please reach out to Lindsey Greer, WW Health Manager of Social Services by calling 715-684-1111 and scheduling an appointment.
“It always seems too early, until it’s too late.” ~NHDD