Dementia Directive
Prepare for Tomorrow, Today
Many people have strong feelings about the type of medical care they would or wouldn’t want if diagnosed with dementia. While it’s a difficult topic to think about, now is the right time to make your wishes known — both to your loved ones and your healthcare proxy. One powerful way to do this is by completing a Dementia Directive and attaching it to your Advance Health Care Directive.
A Living Will for Dementia can be very helpful to medical professionals and family in helping decide care if you are diagnosed with dementia and it progresses to a point where you are no longer able to be involved in healthcare decision making.
What Is a Dementia Directive?
A Dementia Directive is a specialized document that communicates your preferences for medical care if you develop dementia and are no longer able to speak for yourself. It helps guide your family and healthcare proxy in making decisions that reflect your values and desires.
It’s important to note that, unlike an Advance Healthcare Directive, a Dementia Directive is not legally recognized in California.
This directive can bring peace of mind to everyone involved by:
- Reducing uncertainty and guilt for those making decisions on your behalf
- Ensuring you receive the kind of care you would want — no more, no less
- Supporting informed and compassionate choices at each stage of your condition
Planning for a Peaceful Future
A key component of a dignified experience with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia is access to palliative care — specialized care focused on comfort and quality of life. While highly appropriate, palliative care is often underutilized for people with dementia.
Additionally, a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) — signed by your doctor in consultation with you — can be an essential document to ensure that your medical care reflects your wishes as your condition progresses.
Taking the Next Step
If dementia is a concern for you or your loved ones, don’t wait. Talk with your family. Meet with your healthcare provider. And most importantly, put your values in writing.
Adding a Dementia Directive to your Advance Directive can provide guidance, relieve emotional stress for your family, and help ensure you are treated with dignity and respect at every stage of your journey.
