What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Advance Directives?

Several common misconceptions exist around advance directives. Addressing these misconceptions is crucial since it ultimately promotes awareness about advance directives and the importance of maintaining updated documents. Some of the most common misconceptions about advance directives include: 

• They are useful only for older adults and individuals with serious illnesses
• They limit autonomy and decision-making abilities
• All indicated preferences and decisions are permanent 
• They are too complicated to create and maintain 
• They do not need to be updated regularly 
• They should be put away in a secure location where no one else can find them
• The paperwork must be done with a lawyer
• Creating an advance directive makes discussion with loved ones unnecessary

Many individuals choose not to create an advance directive due to the belief that they don’t need one. The misconception that an advance directive is only relevant to older individuals and those who have chronic or life-limiting conditions often prevents younger and healthier individuals from creating one. The reality is that medical emergencies can happen at any time and often occur when they are least anticipated. Having an advance directive is an excellent way to be proactive about outlining care that aligns with personal values and preferences. 

Sometimes individuals don’t want to create an advance directive because they believe it will cause them to lose the ability to make important decisions about care they may receive in the future. However, as long as that individual can make informed decisions on their own, instructions in the advance directive do not go into effect. Further, a healthcare agent or surrogate can make decisions only when a person cannot speak for themselves. 

Another common misconception is that once advance directives have been created, they are permanent and cannot be changed or revoked. In truth, an individual can change their advance directive whenever they deem it necessary, and is encouraged to update their advance directives whenever a major life event or change in health occurs. Additionally, advance directives are very easy to create and establish. It doesn’t require working with a legal advisor. Most people can complete advance directives independently. 

Finally, once advance directives are created, it’s essential to discuss them in detail with the healthcare team, as well as with family and loved ones. While these documents should provide clear instructions regarding the actions to take if someone is unable to make their own healthcare decisions, it is crucial to discuss these preferences with family, loved ones, and the named health care agent to ensure that they fully understand what has been requested and how they can honor these requests. As with any other aspect of advance care planning, maintaining open and transparent communication is essential to ensure the provision of care that is sensitive to the individual’s needs and values. 

Sources

“Five Myths About Advance Care Planning”. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/five-myths-about-advance-care-planning 

“Myths & Facts about Advance Care Planning”. UCLA Health. https://www.uclahealth.org/programs/advance-care-planning/resources/myths-facts