“Being Prepared” Workshop on May 17 at Phoebe Richland
At Phoebe, we are blessed to have so many experts on varying topics related to the health and welfare of older adults. With the goal of informing and opening up conversations to meet the needs of older adults in our community, Phoebe Richland will host a workshop called “Being Prepared” on Wednesday, May 17, at 8:30 AM in the Meadow Glen multi-purpose room at Phoebe Richland.
Phoebe pastoral care staff decided to share “Being Prepared” with other clergy after a very successful pilot held for Phoebe Berks residents. When it comes to making decisions, those regarding end of life care can be the most challenging to face. Chaplains Leah Knox and Dr. Naomi Dublanica developed this program to extend their knowledge on this subject to our partners in ministry.
“Being Prepared” addresses some of the most important questions facing not only older adults but their families and support teams as well. Chaplain Knox—who has previous experience helping patients fill out advanced directives as a hospital chaplain—says the series encourages people to consider their wishes carefully, often years after their first directives were drafted. Presenters will provide valuable information along with resources and handouts on the following:
- How to talk with your doctor about your medical diagnoses and treatment
- Tips on communication with family or significant others about one’s affairs, priorities, fears and wishes
- Information about the importance of completing the Physicians Order for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form
- Directions regarding completing Advance Directives, Powers of Attorney, etc.
Though we cannot know what will happen in the final part of our life’s journey, communication of our wishes, priorities and fears ahead of time can be a real gift to ourselves, our families and those caring for us at the end.