Advance Care Planning for Every Age and Stage

We tend to think of advance care planning as something reserved for “someday” - a distant moment when we’re older, sicker, or facing a major health diagnosis. But the truth is: advance care planning isn’t just for the elderly or the ill. It’s for all of us, at every stage of life.

Advance care planning is about life, not just the end of it. It’s about making choices that reflect who you are and what matters most, long before a crisis forces those choices upon you. When we plan ahead, we give ourselves and our loved ones the gift of clarity, comfort, and confidence.

What Is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning (ACP) is the process of thinking about, discussing, and documenting your preferences for future medical care - before you’re in a situation where you might not be able to speak for yourself. That might include decisions about life-sustaining treatments, comfort measures, or where you wish to receive care.

A key part of advance care planning is choosing a healthcare surrogate - the person you authorize to make medical decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so. This person is sometimes also called a healthcare proxy or medical power of attorney. Your surrogate should be someone you trust to honor your values and advocate for your wishes, even under pressure.

ACP is not just a one-time form you fill out and forget. It’s a dynamic, lifelong process - one that evolves as you do. Want support getting started or updating your documents? Learn more about my Advance Care Planning services here.

It’s Not Too Soon

One of the most common responses I hear when I talk about ACP is: “I’m too young for that.”  Or, “I’m healthy - I don’t need that yet.”  But advance care planning isn’t about age or diagnosis. It’s about preparedness and personal agency.

Accidents and unexpected illnesses don’t discriminate. What is in our control is the opportunity to make sure our voices are heard, no matter what happens. In fact, starting early - and revisiting your choices regularly - is one of the best ways to make sure your care aligns with your values at every stage of life.

If you’re 18 or older, it’s time to start thinking about:

• Who would speak for you if you couldn’t speak for yourself?

• What kind of care would you want - or not want - in a medical emergency?

• Have you shared those wishes with the people who matter?

  
  

It’s Never Too Late

On the other end of the spectrum, some people feel like it’s too late to start. Maybe there’s already a diagnosis on the table, or an aging parent is in the final chapter of life. But even then, having honest, compassionate conversations about goals, fears, and preferences can bring clarity and connection.

Wherever you or your loved one is on life’s path, there is always time to pause and ask: What matters most now?

For Every Stage

Advance care planning looks different depending on your life circumstances. Here’s how it can show up across the lifespan:

• Young adults (18–30s): Designate a healthcare surrogate. Learn how the healthcare system works. Begin to consider your values around autonomy, independence, and medical decision-making.

• Mid-life (30s–50s): Revisit your preferences as your life changes. Are you a parent now? Are you caring for aging relatives? Think about how your responsibilities might shape your care priorities.

• Later life (60s and beyond): Make sure your documents are up to date. Talk openly with loved ones about your wishes. Consider quality of life, not just quantity.

Advance care planning doesn’t have to be heavy or somber. At its heart, it’s about honoring who you are and how you want to be cared for - now and always.

Advance care planning is about life, not just the end of it. It’s about making choices that reflect who you are and what matters most, long before a crisis forces those choices upon you. When we plan ahead, we give ourselves and our loved ones the gift of clarity, comfort, and confidence.

An Invitation

April 16, is the annual National Healthcare Decisions Day - a time to reflect, connect, and take action on behalf of ourselves and those we love. In the weeks ahead, I’ll be sharing a four-part series to help you take meaningful steps toward advance care planning. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to revisit old documents, there’s space for you here.

💬 Ready to talk about what matters most? I’d be honored to support you. Contact me here to schedule a conversation.

Let this be your invitation to begin - not because it’s urgent, but because your voice and your values deserve to be known.