No matter your age, health condition, or stage in life, one thing remains true: you have the right to make your own healthcare choices. Yet, too many people delay or avoid these critical conversations—leaving loved ones unsure about how to act during a medical crisis. That’s why National Healthcare Decisions Day, observed annually on April 16, is such an important reminder.
Let’s explore why advance care planning matters, how to begin the conversation, and what steps you can take to make sure your voice is heard—especially when you may not be able to speak for yourself.
What Is Advance Care Planning and Why Does It Matter?
Advance care planning is the process of making decisions about your future healthcare—before a health crisis occurs. It includes sharing your values, treatment preferences, and what quality of life means to you with your loved ones and medical providers.
These decisions often include:
- Whether or not you would want life-prolonging treatments (ventilators, feeding tubes, resuscitation, etc.)
- Your preferences for end-of-life care
- Appointing someone as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney to make decisions on your behalf
Why This Matters More Than Ever
According to a 2018 survey by The Conversation Project, while 92% of Americans believe it’s important to talk about end-of-life care, only 32% have had the conversation. This gap can lead to confusion, emotional stress, and even conflict during critical moments when clear guidance is needed most.
National Healthcare Decisions Day: A Timely Reminder
Established in 2008, National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) is recognized every April 16, right after Tax Day—cleverly inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s famous words: “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” This day encourages all Americans to start conversations, complete advance directives, and take charge of their healthcare future.
Why You Should Speak Up—At Any Age
You might think advance care planning is only for older adults or those with serious illnesses—but that’s a common misconception.
Here’s Why It’s Important for Everyone:
- Young adults may not think they need it, but accidents and sudden illnesses can happen at any time.
- Parents may want to document their wishes to protect their children from having to make difficult decisions later.
- Seniors and those with chronic conditions benefit most by ensuring their care aligns with their beliefs and values.
Regardless of where you fall on the health spectrum, having a clear healthcare plan in place empowers you—and brings peace of mind to your loved ones.
How to Talk About Advance Care Planning: 5 Key Tips
Robin Maracle, AGCNS-BC and Clinical Nurse Specialist in Palliative Care, offers practical advice for starting these conversations.
1. Start Small, Start Somewhere
You don’t need to cover everything in one conversation. The first step is simply bringing it up.
2. Be Patient with Others
Some family members may find the topic uncomfortable. Give them time and revisit the discussion as needed.
3. Focus on How You Want to Live
Instead of only focusing on death, talk about what makes life meaningful to you. This helps others understand your perspective.
4. You Can Always Change Your Mind
Advance directives are not set in stone. As long as you are of sound mind, you can revise your documents anytime.
5. Put It in Writing
Document your wishes in legal forms such as:
- Living will
- Durable power of attorney for healthcare
- Do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders
Having paperwork in place gives medical decision-makers the confidence to act on your behalf.
Helpful Resources to Guide the Process
Several organizations offer free, easy-to-understand guides for initiating advance care planning:
- The Conversation Project – Offers conversation starter kits
- CaringInfo.org – Provides downloadable state-specific advance directive forms
- National Institute on Aging – Educational materials for older adults
These tools are designed to make the process less intimidating and more approachable for individuals and families alike.
Advance Directives: The Legal Side of Your Healthcare Wishes
What Is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care if you are unable to make decisions due to illness or injury.
Common forms include:
- Living Will: States which treatments you do or do not want
- Healthcare Power of Attorney: Names someone to make medical decisions for you
- POLST or MOLST Forms: Doctor-signed orders for specific treatments near end-of-life
It’s important to:
- Keep your documents updated
- Share copies with your healthcare providers and family
- Store them in a safe but accessible place
The Peace of Mind Factor
Planning ahead doesn’t just protect your autonomy—it also:
- Reduces family conflict
- Lessens emotional burden on loved ones
- Ensures that your values guide your care, even if you’re unable to speak
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is National Healthcare Decisions Day?
It’s a national observance on April 16 that encourages individuals to have conversations about their future healthcare wishes and to complete legal directives.
2. At what age should I consider advance care planning?
Everyone over 18 should consider it, especially once you are responsible for your own medical decisions.
3. What documents are included in advance care planning?
Typically, a living will, durable healthcare power of attorney, and possibly a DNR order or POLST form.
4. Can I change my healthcare decisions later?
Yes, you can revise your documents anytime—as long as you are mentally competent.
5. What if my family disagrees with my wishes?
Legal documentation ensures that your preferences are followed, even if family members disagree.
