Grief Support Library

Caregiving for the terminally ill

Continued

What are the wishes of your loved one? Discuss his/or her wishes with the rest of the family so they will understand. There are many emotional issues at this time requiring good communication with everyone close to the patient.

From personal experience, I cannot recommend highly enough the need to have a health care power of attorney in place. This allows a chosen individual the legal right to speak for the patient in the event they are unable to speak for themselves. Also, your loved one can designate their wishes regarding end-of-life choices for life support or lack thereof, funeral preferences, and many other important areas. In addition to the power of attorney, a will is important to ensure the estate of the loved one is disbursed according to their wishes. I cannot tell you that the role of caregiver is easy. But I can promise you it has its blessings and rewards along the way. I wish you much success as you undertake this most loving endeavor. You can contact me at DeeAnn@beyondindigo.com if you have any questions that have not been covered. Remember to take care of yourself as you take care of yourloved one.

Debbie Sims is a Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Psychiatric Nursing, has a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She maintains a private practice in counseling but her devotion is to her position as Editor for Beyond Indigo an Internet web site for those who are grieving.

Dr. James Baltzell M.D. is a practicing physician in Minneapolis, MN and a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota. He has been practicing medicine for the last 30 years.