Many individuals mistakenly assume that placing a do not
resuscitate (DNR) order in a living will is the right way to go about planning
for unforeseen medical situations. While it is always a good idea to be
prepared by providing information regarding one's wishes to the individuals who
may have to make such decisions, it is important that individuals understand
the difference between a living will and a DNR order and how to enact them
appropriately. If your senior is creating a living will or other advance
directive, the home care professionals at Always Best Care of Greenville,
serving Greenville, Greer, Simpsonville, Taylors, Fountain Inn, and Mauldin,
believe that it is crucial that they take these important notes into
consideration when doing so.[1]
- The interpretation of the verbiage used in living wills is very widely debated. Terms like "seriously incapacitating" can be interpreted by different physicians to varying degrees. As such, it is important to note that there may not be one specific level of medical need that will qualify as such. This can cause complications if a DNR order is added to the directive, as it can cause medical professionals to carry out the DNR order when it is not intended.
- When medical personnel interpret living wills they are not given code status designations. As such, it can make the wishes of your elderly loved one difficult for these healthcare professionals to understand and, by extension, can cause your loved one to be treated in a manner that might not be in line with their wishes.
- Informed consent is integral in the establishment of a DNR order, as this order can mean life or death for a patient. As such, living wills do not offer the level of informed consent required in many cases. This means that, in some situations, elderly individuals who sign living wills are not always aware of the implications of their signature.
Talking about living wills and DNR orders with your elderly
loved one is not an easy task. The elder care professionals at Always Best Care
of Greenville (www.AlwaysBestCareGreenville.com) know that this is an
emotionally difficult responsibility, to be sure, but it is crucial that you
have this conversation in order to ensure that your senior's wishes are
documented properly. Doing so can make future medical decisions easier for your
loved one, your family, and the healthcare team responsible for your senior.
Always Best Care combines national strength and standards with local accessibility and personal service. The owner of Always Best Care of Greenville is Bruce Meyer. Bruce and his team assist seniors and their families in South Carolina by providing non-medical in-home care and FREE assisted living placement services. We have strong relationships with area hospitals, social workers, senior communities and senior resources throughout the area. We have your loved ones’ best interests at heart, and will ensure that exceptional service and care is provided to all family members.
Call us today at 864-527-0464 or visit online for a free e-booklet on senior care!
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