Home Care & Hospice

Documents for end-of-life care

Written documents give clear instructions about the kind of care you want at the end of life. By writing down your wishes, you can help your loved ones and doctors understand and follow your choices. That’s important if you are unable to make decisions or communicate for yourself.

We offer free assistance to help you prepare your advance care planning documents.

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Important decisions to clearly state in your documents include:

  • Appoint a healthcare representative to make medical decisions for you if you cannot communicate.

Specific advance directives

As of January 1, 2023, the state of Indiana made legislative changes to the Advance Directive documents.

Laws governing advance directives vary from state to state. Documents available in English and Spanish include forms to:

Use these documents to start conversations with your family about your wishes. They can help you better understand the treatment options available and make decisions about what measures you want to be taken in certain circumstances. List the kind of health care you do or don’t want to receive if you cannot speak for yourself. A written document* and your instructions* (written and verbal) will help guide your appointed representative when speaking as your advocate with your healthcare providers.
     *Documents must be completed in English per State regulation.

After you complete these documents, remember to give copies to your primary care doctor, the hospital and your family members.
 
Our glossary of terms explains specific words or phrases that relate to end-of-life care.

We can help

Learn more about end-of-life care or contact Goshen Hospice, (574) 364-2700.

Additional resources

These websites may help you begin a conversation about end-of-life care with your family: