The theme for this year’s National Care Planning Week is ‘Your story, your choice’ and is a good reminder to pause and think about what matters most. Advance Care Planning is for everyone, regardless of age or health. For people living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), planning ahead early can provide clarity and peace of mind as the disease progresses.
What is Advance Care Planning and why is it important?
Advance Care Planning means thinking about and communicating your values, wishes, and preferences for future healthcare. It involves:
- Reflecting on what matters most to you
- Talking with loved ones
- Discussing your wishes with your healthcare team
- Recording your decisions
- Reviewing regularly to keep the documentation up to date.
Planning ahead helps ensure you receive the care you want. If your wishes aren’t known, treatments may be provided that don’t align with your preferences.
Recording your choices
In Australia, each state and territory has a different process. Advance Care Planning Australia has a list of planning documents for each state and territory: Record your choices | Advance Care Planning Australia
Need support?
If you are living with MND and would like support with planning ahead, speak with your MND Advisor. Your Advisor can also provide you with a hard copy of the End of Life Care: A Guide for People Living with MND or you can contact info line to request a copy on 1800 777 175 or
