Planning for the Future

Older Australians are being encouraged to plan for their future. This may include sorting out legal and financial affairs, getting home help, applying for residential aged care, and planning for end-of-life care.

Advance Care Planning (ACP) is shared planning for future health care. It includes discussing and documenting values, beliefs and preferences to guide decisions if a person becomes unable to make or communicate their own choices.

While ACP is beneficial for everyone, it is especially important for people with advanced chronic or life-limiting illnesses, those planning for retirement, and those at risk of cognitive decline. This process helps health professionals, family, and friends understand the person’s treatment and care preferences for the future.

For people living with dementia, early planning for end-of-life care is particularly beneficial, as their ability to make and understand decisions may change over time.