What is an Advance Decision and why you might need one

An Advance Decision is a legal document that lets you outline your wishes about medical treatment if you can't make or communicate decisions yourself. This can be especially important if you have dementia, as the condition can eventually impair your ability to make informed decisions.

Why you might need an Advance Decision 

1. Ensure your wishes are followed: dementia can progress to the point where you may not be able to express your wishes regarding medical treatment. An Advance Decision ensures your preferences are respected, even if you can't communicate them.

2. Avoid unwanted treatments: you can specify which treatments you do or do not want, such as resuscitation or hydration. This ensures you receive the care you want and avoid treatments you do not wish to undergo.

3. Relieve burden on family and friends: making your wishes clear in an Advance Decision can relieve your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during stressful times. It provides them with the comfort of knowing they are honouring your wishes.

4. Provide clear guidance to healthcare providers: an Advance Decision offers clear instructions to doctors and other healthcare professionals, ensuring they follow your treatment preferences when you can't voice them.

How to make an Advance Decision

1. Detail your wishes clearly: be specific about the treatments you want to refuse. For example, you might state you do not want to be resuscitated if your heart stops or that you wish to decline antibiotics.

2. Sign and date the document: ensure your Advance Decision is signed and dated and arrange for someone over 18 to sign and witness it. 

3. Consult with healthcare professionals: talk to your doctor about your wishes to make sure you understand the medical implications and that your document is clear and comprehensive.

4. Share your decision: give copies of your Advance Decision to your family, doctor, and anyone involved in your care. This helps ensure everyone is aware of your wishes.

Keeping your Advance Decision up to date

Review and update your Advance Decision regularly or if your health situation changes. Inform everyone involved in your care about any changes to ensure your current wishes are known.

Sources: NHS, Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society