Five Wishes is a document that helps you and the people in your life talk together about these important matters. Its called an advance directive, because it helps you make decisions in advance that can direct your care later. It is recognized as a legal document for this purpose.
What’s special about Five Wishes is that it covers more than most advance directives. It helps you talk about what matters most- the emotional, personal, and spiritual concerns we all have when we think about the end of life. Five Wishes is a gift you can give another. It helps you understand each other and can give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing what your loved ones want at the end of their lives.
Five Wishes was created by the non profit Aging with Dignity, a leading advocate for the needs of elders and those who care for them. Aging with Dignity founder Jim Towey created Five Wishes with doctors, nurses, lawyers, and other experts in end- of –life care to help people of all ages get the treatment they want and if they become seriously ill. Jim learned that most people are most concerned about maintaining their comfort and dignity when they are sick. This is why Five Wishes addresses the personal, emotional, and spiritual needs of a person, not just the medical ones.
