2. Let’s talk about…estate planning.
Consider planning your estate. Many people mistakenly believe that estate planning is only for the wealthy. But the reality is that a basic estate plan is essential for everyone regardless of income. The point of estate planning is to minimize confusion, avoid altercations and stress. If you have ever had the unfortunate experience of having to figure out your loved one’s assets after they have passed on, you know firsthand that it is a very stressful experience and sometimes can take years to figure out.
Take the time this holiday season to document your assets such as houses, retirement plans and savings accounts, update your will, designate a financial power of attorney and at a minimum update your beneficiary forms.
MUST READ: Prevent Caregiver Burnout
3. Let’s talk about…advanced directives.
One last piece of holiday wisdom is to make your advanced directives. Uh oh… yep, I said it. An advanced directive is a document that dictates your preference concerning medical care should you be unable to express those preferences at the time of illness (i.e., serious injury, coma, advanced dementia, terminally ill). Advanced directives are not just for the elderly; unexpected life situations can occur at any age and at any time. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you get the medical care you desire and potentially relieve a huge burden on your family and avoid unnecessary confusion.
Your advanced directives should address your decisions regarding CPR, cardiac resuscitation, artificial breathing via ventilator, artificial means of feeding, dialysis, organ donation and when you would want to avoid extraordinary measures. At a minimum you should pick someone you trust to be your medical power of attorney, a person that will make medical decisions on your behalf should you be unable. Keep in mind that your plan will evolve over time and be sure to utilize your doctor as a resource to help create your advanced directive.
So as you enjoy these holiday festivities, just take a moment to learn your family history and acquaint yourself with the idea of preserving your legacy through estate planning and an advanced directive.
Dr. Chantale Stephens-Archer is a Board Certified Internal Medicine physician currently working as a Hospitalist in the Chicagoland area. In addition to actively working as a physician, she has a strong passion for community outreach, women’s health education and mentorship. She is the co- founder of Besties MD, an organization developed to provide medical information regarding women’s health issues on relatable sisterly level. Check them out at BestiesMD.com
Legacy Building: 3 Conversations To Have With Your Fam This Holiday was originally published on blackdoctor.org
