Article by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2026 August)
If you became incapacitated and couldn’t speak for yourself, would your family know what medical care you want? It can be uncomfortable to think about, but planning now is the best way to make sure your wishes are followed.
What Is Advance Care Planning?
Advance care planning means:
- Thinking about what kind of medical care you would want in the future.
- Talking about your wishes with your family and your doctors.
- Writing down your decisions in legal documents.
To plan, you will need to:
- Learn about different medical treatments.
- Understand your choices and what they mean.
- Decide what fits your values, beliefs, and quality of life.
Some of the things to consider are life-support machines (like ventilators), comfort-focused care (palliative care), and other medical procedures.
Legal Documents That Share Your Wishes
Advance care planning often includes creating legal documents that clearly state what you want. These include:
- Advance Directive or Living Will – a document that lists the types of medical care you do and do not want.
- DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) Order – a medical order that states whether you want CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
- Durable Financial Power of Attorney – a document that names a person or organization to handle your money and bills if you can’t.
- Durable Medical Power of Attorney – a document that names someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to decide for yourself. This person also helps make sure your Advance Directive is followed.
Even with legal documents, it’s very important to talk with your family, close friends, healthcare providers, and your lawyer or legal advisor about your decisions. These conversations help everyone understand your wishes so they can speak up for you if needed.
Helpful Resources to Get Started
- Fairfax County’s Advance Care Planning Resource Hub – offers information, a video, and an Advance Care Planning Resource Guide in eight languages for Fairfax-area residents.
- Inova’s Advance Care Planning – provides information and links to forms, including a standard Advance Directive form in six languages.
- National Institute on Aging – shares tips for families and caregivers, planning worksheets, and other tools.
By taking the time to consider your options, make decisions about your care, and share them, you will gain peace of mind knowing your wishes are clear. You will also reduce stress and uncertainty for your loved ones, who won’t have to guess what you would want in a difficult moment.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).