Advanced Care Directive workshop

We are both blessed and challenged living here in Point Roberts. The beauty, the quiet, the wildlife, a great community of caring, generous and helpful neighbors all fill our hearts with gratitude and contribute to a feeling of well-being and safety. However, the challenges of living in our little border community with many of the “social safety net services” not available to us because of the border and the limitations of budget and resources are also significant. Because we live in a community without an elder care facility, when we need rehab or assisted living, currently we have to leave Point Roberts and find a bed in Blaine or Lynden, Ferndale or Bellingham.

Sometimes decisions about our care and our residence must be made after we have unexpectedly fallen ill and are incapable of making sound decisions on our own behalf regarding our care. This is why an Advance Care Directive is important to have in place before some illness or injury befalls you.

An advance care directive is a legal document that expresses your wishes for your future medical care if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. It can help you to:

• Have more control over your health care and end-of-life care

• Avoid unwanted or unnecessary treatments that do not align with your values and preferences

• Reduce the burden and stress on your family and caregivers who may have to make decisions for you

• Improve the quality of your communication and relationship with your health care providers

An advance care directive can include:

• A living will, which states what types of medical treatments you would want or not want in certain situations, such as life support, pain relief or organ donation

• A durable power of attorney for health care, which names a person who can make health care decisions for you if you cannot speak for yourself

• A statement of your personal values, beliefs and goals for your health and well-being

An advance care directive is important for anyone who wants to plan ahead and ensure that their future medical care is consistent with their wishes. It can also help to prevent conflicts or confusion among your loved ones and health care providers. You should review and update your advance care directive regularly, especially if your health condition or personal circumstances change.

Circle of Care will sponsor an Advance Care Directive workshop on Wednesday, November 15, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Point Roberts Library. The event will be facilitated by Circle of Care’s executive director, Annelle Norman. In addition to the Washington State-approved Peace Health Advance Care Document, we will also discuss a dementia care directive and provide information on the various funeral homes that service Point Roberts. Please email to secure your seat prcircleofcare@gmail.com.