• think about their values and wishes for end-of-life treatment, in the event that they become incapable of consenting to - or refusing - treatment or other care;
• to discuss their wishes with the person(s) who will speak for them at a time when they cannot speak for themselves – and with health care providers, either in a hospital, a long-term care home or a community care setting.
• to write down their preferences for end-of-life care, while they are physically and mentally well, and not influenced by an emergency situation; and
• to name a Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) - the person who will speak for them when they cannot speak for themselves.

When faced with sudden, end-of-life decisions, most people will ask for interventions for their loved ones that they would not want for themselves, because most people do not want to feel responsible for making decisions at the end of another person’s life. We encourage all of our patients, clients and residents to engage in this important conversation. By documenting your plans, your family members and health care team will be able to make treatment decisions for you - based on your values and wishes.

• PRC-002 Advance Care Planning and Goals of Care Designations policy (PDF)

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 
• Resources: Advance Care Planning brochure (PDF)
• Resources: Advance Care Planning poster (PDF)
• Resources: National 'Speak Up' website