Key takeaways
- It’s important to have an understanding of the person you are caring for wishes should they need more care in the future, and to plan ahead
- Key documents such as a living will and power of attorney are important to have in place
- Open communication with family, friends and healthcare professionals can make l informed decisions easier
When caring for someone with cancer, it’s important to have an understanding of their wishes. Advance care planning (ACP) is a voluntary process where a person and their care providers discuss their preferences and priorities for future care. Having the necessary legal documents in place will help ensure their wishes are respected. Here’s a guide to the key documents you should have in the UK and how to obtain them:
Advance Statement
An advance statement allows the person you are caring for to record their wishes for future care, guiding healthcare teams and family members in decision-making. This document, while not legally binding, should be signed to confirm it reflects their wishes.
Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT)
An ADRT, sometimes known as a living will, or advance directive if you live in Scotland, is a legally binding document that allows your loved one to refuse specific treatments in the future. It requires clear documentation of their wishes, discussed and confirmed with the healthcare team.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
An LPA (known as continuing power of attorney in Scotland or Enduring Power of Attorney in Northern Ireland) allows the person you are caring for to appoint someone to make decisions on their behalf if they lose mental capacity. This document can be accessed here, with clear instructions on how to complete it and register it.
If you live in Scotland there are three types of Power of Attorney. Enduring Power of Attorney, Welfare Power of Attorney and a Combined Power of Attorney detail of these can be found here. There are also different options for appointing one or more Power of Attorney.
Wills
A will details how the person you are caring for estate should be distributed after their death and names guardians for any dependents. It must be signed and witnessed to be legally valid, and any changes require a codicil or new will. Having a will in place is a comfort for many people as it avoids lengthy legal processes should they die with no will in place.
Having these documents ensures that the wishes of the person you are caring for are respected and helps you make informed decisions on their behalf. For more detailed information and guidance, visit Macmillan’s advanced care planning resources.
While we have ensured that every article is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to one of our healthcare professionals or your primary healthcare team.
References:
‘Planning ahead when you look after someone with cancer,’ Macmillan.org.uk, Apr 2023, https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/supporting-someone/practical-support-for-carers/planning-ahead-when-you-look-after-someone-with-cancer