Making Your Wishes Known

When you have many health problems, serious problems can come up. With them come hard decisions. For example, you might have to decide whether or not to use a ventilator or whether you want to continue treatment.

It's best to be prepared in advance. Write down what treatment you want or don't want, and find someone who can speak up for you in the event that you can't. This will make things easier for both you and your loved ones.

• Learn about advance directives and living wills.
• Find out how to choose someone to speak for you.
• Learn about hospice and care at the end of life.

For Caregivers

Caring for someone who has long-term health problems can be stressful. You want to do as much as you can, but you also can get tired and have health problems of your own. You need to take care of yourself as well as your loved one.

These caregiver tips can help you:

• Take care of yourself.
• Don't help your loved one too much.
• Ask for help from others.

Related Information

• Positive Thinking: Stopping Unwanted Thoughts
• Anxiety: Using Positive Thinking
• Depression: Using Positive Thinking
• Making the Most of Your Appointment
• Positive Thinking With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Work Closely With Your Doctor