Hey guys, have you ever thought about what would happen if you suddenly couldn’t make decisions for yourself anymore? I know, it’s not the most uplifting topic, but it’s something we all need to consider. That’s where the “5 Wishes Printable Version” comes in - it’s a document that lets you outline your healthcare wishes in case you can’t communicate them yourself.
First up, let’s talk about the basics:
Ok, so what exactly is the “5 Wishes Printable Version?” Essentially, it’s a legal document that lets you spell out your healthcare preferences ahead of time. It’s called the “5 Wishes” because it covers five key areas:
- The person I want to make healthcare decisions for me when I can’t
- The kind of medical treatment I want or don’t want
- How comfortable I want to be
- How I want people to treat me
- What I want my loved ones to know
Each of these areas is then broken down into more specific questions, so you can be as detailed as you want to be. For example, under #3 (“How comfortable I want to be”), it asks questions like:
- Whether you want pain medication, and if so, how much
- Whether you want someone to pray or read to you
- Whether you want music playing or the curtains open/closed
By answering these questions and making your wishes known, you can ensure that you receive the medical care you want and don’t receive care you don’t want. It also makes it easier on your loved ones, because they won’t have to guess at what you would have wanted.
But wait, is this actually legal?!
Good question! The answer is yes - the “5 Wishes Printable Version” is a legally-binding document that is recognized in 42 states (plus DC). It was created by the non-profit organization Aging with Dignity and has been around since the late 90s. So you can feel confident that your wishes will be honored.
How do I get a copy of the “5 Wishes Printable Version?”
You can download a copy for free from the Aging with Dignity website (https://www.agingwithdignity.org/forms/5wishes.pdf). You can also purchase a hard copy for $5, if you prefer.
Do I need a lawyer to fill out the “5 Wishes Printable Version?”
Nope! You don’t need a lawyer or any special training to fill it out. You just need to be able to read and write (or dictate to someone else). However, it’s worth noting that if you have specific legal concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with a lawyer. The document itself does have some legal language in it, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure.
Ok, I’m convinced. What’s the catch?
Believe it or not, there isn’t really a catch. The “5 Wishes Printable Version” is a simple, straightforward document that can help you feel more in control of your healthcare. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The document is not a substitute for a living will or healthcare power of attorney. Those are more formal legal documents that provide more detail about your wishes and designate someone to make decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. The “5 Wishes” is a good starting point, but it’s not the whole story.
- You might need to update your “5 Wishes” every so often. For example, if you move to a new state, you should check to make sure it’s still legally-binding. You should also update it if your healthcare wishes change (for example, if you develop a new health condition).
- You need to make sure your loved ones know you have a “5 Wishes” and know where to find it. It’s also a good idea to give copies to your doctor(s) and any healthcare providers you regularly see. That way, if an emergency arises, everyone is on the same page regarding your wishes.
Wrapping Up
Alrighty, that’s the “5 Wishes Printable Version” in a nutshell. I hope I’ve convinced you that it’s worth considering! It’s not the most fun thing to think about, but it’s an important part of planning for your future - plus, it’s a good excuse to boss people around (“I demand that no one play Nickelback in my hospital room!”).
