Be Prepared (End of Life Issues)

This page is an archive. Its content may no longer be accurate and was last updated on the original publication date. It is intended for reference and as a historical record only. For hep C questions, call Help4Hep BC at 1-888-411-7578.

If you are prepared, you can relax, knowing that you’ve done your best to make difficult situations and choices easier for everyone.

  • And your loved ones can relax, too, knowing what their specific roles are in your care, how you wish your financial matters to be handled, and how you wish to be cared for – both as you age, and after your passing.
  • None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. A health crisis may affect you or a family member at any time.

There are 3 parts to this section:

Will
https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/esdc-edsc/documents/corporate/seniors/forum/brochure-06-eng.pdf

Your will is the easiest and most effective way to tell others how you want your property and possessions– called your estate– to be distributed. Even if you don’t have much money or property, it’s still a good idea to have a will so you can name an executor and make it clear who you want making decisions after you die.

Enduring Power of Attorney
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/incapacity-planning

This publication tells you how a power of attorney can be used to give someone the legal power to take care of financial and legal matters for you. It explains the types of power of attorney, who can be an attorney, what powers and responsibilities the attorney has, and how to end a power of attorney.

Advance Care Planning (Advanced Health Directive)
https://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2013/MyVoice-AdvanceCarePlanningGuide.pdf

Advance care planning allows you to have a say in the health care you will receive if you are too sick to speak for yourself. It is a way to reflect on your values, beliefs and wishes so that you can make your own health care decisions. By discussing and documenting your wishes with your loved ones, health care team and family physician, they will be better able to act on your behalf.