Medicine has made incredible advancements in recent decades. Unlike in the past, doctors now have a variety of options for treating many maladies. They even may be able to bring you back to life after you suffer a major cardiac or pulmonary event. You should have some say in the treatments doctors try, though.
According to AARP, fewer than half of Americans over the age of 50 have an advance health care directive. This is the legally binding planning tool that tells doctors and others about the medical treatments you want and do not want. Here are three bad reasons to put off writing your advance directive.
1. You do not want to think about poor health
It is perfectly normal not to want to think about poor health. Still, your risk of having poor health remains the same, regardless of whether you have an advance directive. By facing your fears, you can be sure doctors treat you the way you want them to treat you.
2. You do not have the time
Like many Americans, you feel busier than ever. You should make some time in your hectic schedule to write an advance directive, though. After all, time is likely to come to a standstill when you are facing a serious medical emergency.
3. You do not have enough information
You may not know enough about medical procedures to make informed choices when writing an advance directive. While you certainly should try to educate yourself about popular treatments and resuscitation methods, knowing you can update your advance directive later may put your mind at ease.
Ultimately, rather than using a bad reason to put off writing your advance directive, you should set aside some time on your calendar to complete yours soon.
