When it comes to managing your health or the health of a loved one, especially at end-of-life, one of the most important lessons you can learn is to trust your own expertise. Our culture often teaches us to defer to doctors, but your personal insights and observations are invaluable. You are the expert on your body, daily habits, and subtle changes you notice in mood, cognition, or physical health. You can use your intuition and share these insights with your healthcare providers. This proactive approach can make a significant difference in the quality of care you receive. The same holds true if you are a loved one’s advocate.
Trusting Your Expertise
Doctors possess vast medical knowledge, but they don’t live in your body. They don’t experience your daily routines, your pain levels, or the nuances of your emotional state. If you notice changes in yourself or a loved one, speak up. Trust that your observations are valid and important. For example, if you see mood swings or cognitive changes in a family member, don’t hesitate to raise these concerns with their doctor. Your input could provide crucial context that can lead to better, more personalized care.
Proactive Discussions About End-of-Life Care
It’s natural to hope that your healthcare providers will guide you through all the decisions, but this isn’t always the case. The healthcare system often prioritizes curing diseases, sometimes at the expense of discussing quality of life, especially near the end. Therefore, it’s essential to initiate conversations about end-of-life care early on. Discussing options like hospice and palliative care before you need them can ensure that your priorities and values are respected.
When a loved one is ill, you might assume that the medical team will tell you when it is time to consider hospice. You may be afraid to ask about it, fearing it would seem pessimistic. This silence could lead to missed opportunities for improving their quality of life. Early discussions can make a significant difference.
Understanding Your Options: Hospice and Palliative Care
Many people are familiar with hospice care, which focuses on comfort for those nearing the end of life. However, hospice is just one aspect of a broader approach known as palliative care. Palliative care can be introduced at any stage of an illness, even alongside treatments aimed at curing the disease. It focuses on providing relief from symptoms, stress, and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
Engaging with a palliative care team means gaining access to a multidisciplinary group of professionals dedicated to comfort and support. These experts can help manage symptoms like pain or nausea, navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and facilitate discussions about your goals and wishes.
Resources for End-of-Life Planning
Equipping yourself with knowledge and tools can empower you to make informed decisions about your care. Resources like The Conversation Project and “A Beginner’s Guide to the End” by Dr. BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger – available wherever you buy your books – offer valuable guidance on how to discuss and document your preferences.
Taking Control of Your Healthcare Journey
Remember, you are a vital part of your healthcare team. Trust your insights, ask questions, and don’t wait for someone else to raise the tough topics. As The Oldish always advocates, proactive engagement is the best path. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure that your healthcare aligns with your values and priorities, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for you and your loved ones.
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