What is Advance Care Planning?

Advance Care Planning supports people to live well at home with comfort, dignity, and care that truly reflects their wishes.

Advance Care Planning is a thoughtful process that helps individuals think about, discuss, and record what matters most to them in their care and treatment. It ensures that, if there comes a time when they are unable to make or express decisions, their values and preferences continue to guide their care.

In home care, where support is provided in a person’s own familiar surroundings, Advance Care Planning is an important part of person-centred care. It helps the care team understand the individual’s wishes so that daily support and any clinical decisions reflect their values, beliefs, and choices.

Why Advance Care Planning Matters

• It keeps the person at the heart of care: Care and support are shaped around the person’s own values, priorities, and preferences.
• Enhances care and communication: The home care team gains a clear understanding of what truly matters to each person, helping ensure care is responsive and consistent with their wishes.
• Supports comfort and peace of mind: Advance Care Planning helps avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and ensures decisions are made in line with the person’s goals for comfort and quality of life.
• Eases emotional burden for families: Loved ones gain confidence knowing what the person wants, reducing uncertainty and helping everyone feel supported.

When Should Advance Care Plans Be Created?

Advance Care Planning is a proactive and ongoing process. In home care, it is important that every individual has the opportunity to create or review their plan at a time that feels right for them. Planning may take place:

• When a person begins receiving home care services

• Whenever there is a change in their health, care needs, or personal circumstances

• As part of regular care reviews and conversations

• Whenever the person or their loved ones wish to update or revisit their plan

Advance Care Plans should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain accurate, relevant, and reflective of the person’s current wishes. MyWishes Care’s Advance Care Plans can be documented by Home Care organisations in person, virtually or over the phone when required.