National Hospice and Palliative Care Checklist

I came a cross this great checklist  on the NHPCO website and thought I would be a valuable tool for caregivers.  Feel free to print it off and let it help guide you in being proactive and prepared.

• Get the information you need to make informed choices about end-of-life care.
• Get to know end-of-life care services that are available to you such as hospice and palliative care providers by going to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization's website.
• Discuss your thoughts, concerns and choices with your loved ones.
• Talk to your doctor about different treatments.
• Establish advance directives (a living will and medical power of attorney) for your state.
• Talk to your healthcare agent, family and doctor about your choices.
• Discuss your choices often, especially when your medical condition changes.
• Keep your completed advance directives in an accessible place.
• Give photocopies of the signed originals to your healthcare agent, alternate agents, doctor, family, friends, clergy and anyone else who might be involved in your healthcare.
• Assess your financial situation, create a financial inventory and determine what end-of-life goals you want to accomplish that involve money.
• Learn about the cost of end-of-life care, how medical bills and expenses will be paid for if you are not able to.
• Make financial decisions such as how you want to give your money and possessions to others upon your death.
• Prepare for the time when you cannot handle money matters; appoint a durable power of attorney.
• Plan your funeral/memorial service.