The Importance of Advance Care Planning: A Lesson from a Father’s Struggle
A Difficult Decision
A few days ago, our Famedico Home Healthcare team visited Aisha’s home in Trivandrum to care for her aging father. At nearly 80 years old, he was battling a severe lung infection and required life support.
After shifting him to the hospital, doctors posed a heart-wrenching question to Aisha:
Should he be put on a ventilator or be taken home for palliative care?
Aisha was devastated. She kept wondering, “What would my father want?” But she didn’t have an answer—because they had never talked about it.
Unfortunately, this scenario isn’t uncommon. Families are often left struggling to make urgent medical decisions without clear guidance. But we’ve also witnessed the peace and clarity that comes when families prepare in advance.
This is why advance care planning is so important.
What Is Advance Care Planning?
Advance care planning is the process of deciding on your medical preferences before a health crisis occurs. It ensures your wishes are respected if you’re ever unable to communicate them yourself.
It Involves:
Deciding the type of medical care you’d want in a serious illness.
Naming someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf.
Ensuring your family isn’t left guessing during a medical emergency.
Why It Matters—For Everyone
The pandemic showed us how unpredictable life can be. Advance care planning isn’t just for the elderly or seriously ill. Medical emergencies can happen to anyone—at any time.
Even our own team at Famedico, made up of healthy healthcare professionals in their 30s, has completed advance directives—because no one is immune to the unexpected.
How to Create an Advance Care Plan
1. Reflect on What Matters Most
Ask yourself:
If I were seriously ill, what would make life meaningful?
Would I want to be kept alive on machines? Or prefer comfort and dignity?
Clarity on your values ensures your care reflects your true wishes.
2. Appoint a Trusted Decision-Maker
Choose someone who:
Understands your personal values.
Can advocate for your wishes in challenging situations.
This could be a close friend, spouse, or family member.
3. Put It in Writing
An Advance Directive is a simple legal document that outlines your healthcare preferences.
Benefits include:
Preventing guilt or confusion among family members.
Ensuring your wishes are respected by doctors and caregivers.
The Hardest Part? Taking the First Step
Surveys show that 90% of people believe advance care planning is important—but only a small percentage take action.
Why? Because it’s uncomfortable to think about worst-case scenarios.
But planning ahead isn’t about expecting the worst—it’s about creating peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.
Start the Conversation Today
Here’s how to begin:
Talk to your family. Share your thoughts on medical care and end-of-life choices.
Document your wishes. Complete an Advance Directive.
Consult your doctor. Get clarity on medical options and legal steps.
At Famedico, We’re Here to Support You
At Famedico Home Healthcare, we believe the best way to care for families is to prepare in advance. We offer compassionate and professional home healthcare services in Trivandrum, including:
Home nursing services in Trivandrum
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Because when it comes to health, being prepared is the greatest act of love.
Need Help with Home Healthcare in Trivandrum?
Contact Famedico Home Healthcare Today
Whether you’re looking for home nursing, a trained caregiver, or doctor visits at home in Trivandrum, we’re just a call away.
Your family’s health and peace of mind are our top priority.