Understanding Advance Care Planning in Alberta: Your Guide to Future Healthcare Planning

In Alberta, planning for future healthcare decisions revolves around creating an Advance Care Plan. Unlike some provinces, Alberta has developed a system that allows you to document your wishes and appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

What Makes Alberta’s System Unique

Alberta’s approach to advance care planning stands out for its clarity and accessibility. The document you create is called a Personal Directive, and the individual you designate to act on your behalf is known as your Agent. The law clearly outlines the roles and responsibilities of both parties. While legal advice isn’t mandatory to create a Personal Directive, many people find it helpful to ensure their wishes are clearly communicated.

For detailed guidance, visit the Government of Alberta’s Personal Directives page.

Creating Your Advance Care Plan

The process of creating an Advance Care Plan in Alberta is straightforward and accessible. You must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be mentally capable of understanding the decisions you’re making.

Your document must be:

• In writing.
• Dated and signed by you and a witness.

Witness Requirements:

Your witness must be:

• At least 18 years old.
• Not your Agent or their spouse/partner.
• Not the person signing on your behalf if you’re physically unable to sign.

For more information, refer to the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee.

Choosing Your Agent

Your Agent will be your voice if you’re unable to speak for yourself. Selecting the right person is critical. They should understand not only your specific wishes but also the values and beliefs that guide your decisions.

Your Agent must be:

• At least 18 years old.
• Someone you trust completely.
• Mentally capable.
• Willing to take on this responsibility.
• Available when needed.

Communicating with Your Agent

Open and honest communication with your Agent is essential to ensure they can advocate effectively for you. Discuss topics such as:

Quality of Life:

• What makes life meaningful to you?
• Would you want aggressive medical treatment if it impacted your ability to communicate or recognize family?

Medical Preferences:

• Your thoughts on life support.
• Balancing pain management with alertness.
• Preferences for receiving care at home versus in a medical facility.

Cultural and Religious Values:

• Specific practices or beliefs that should guide your care.
• Treatments that are acceptable or unacceptable based on your faith.

Documenting Your Wishes

Alberta offers flexibility in how you express your wishes in an Advance Care Plan. You might include:

Healthcare Choices:

• Life-sustaining treatments.
• Pain management preferences.
• Views on experimental treatments.
• Decisions about organ donation.
• End-of-life care location.

Personal Matters:

• Who should be informed about your condition.
• Spiritual care preferences.
• Grooming and dietary preferences.

When Your Personal Directive Takes Effect

Your Personal Directive only takes effect if you are deemed unable to make decisions. This determination is made through a formal capacity assessment conducted by healthcare providers, following Alberta’s legal guidelines. For more details, review the Capacity Assessment Process.

Keeping Your Plan Current

Your healthcare preferences may change over time, and your Advance Care Plan should reflect these changes. Review and update your plan:

• After significant life events (e.g., marriage, divorce, loss of a loved one).
• When your health status changes.
• If your values or priorities evolve.
• When moving within Alberta.

Making Your Personal Directive Accessible

A Personal Directive is only effective if it’s available when needed. Consider the following:

Registration:

Alberta offers a free Personal Directives Registry where you can record your directive’s existence. While registration isn’t mandatory, it ensures healthcare providers can quickly locate your document. Learn more at the Personal Directives Registry.

Distribution:

Share copies of your directive with:

• Your Agent.
• Your family doctor.
• Trusted family members.
• Your lawyer.
• Your local hospital.

Getting Started with Advance Care Planning

Here’s how to begin:

1. Reflect on your values, preferences, and what matters most to you about your future care.
2. Talk to potential Agents about their willingness to take on this role and your specific healthcare preferences.
3. Draft your Personal Directive, either independently or with professional guidance.
4. Ensure it is properly signed and witnessed.
5. Register your directive with Alberta’s Personal Directives Registry.

Resources for Support

Alberta provides several resources to guide you through advance care planning:

• Alberta Health Services Advance Care Planning
• Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee
• Legal Resource Centres in Alberta

Common Questions About Advance Care Planning

1. Does the directive need to be notarized? No, but it must be properly witnessed.

2. Can I name multiple Agents? Yes, but be clear about whether they must act jointly or independently.

3. Can I change or revoke my directive? Yes, as long as you are mentally capable, you can update or cancel your directive at any time.

Creating an Advance Care Plan is a thoughtful act of care for yourself and your loved ones. It ensures that your voice is heard during critical healthcare decisions while providing clarity and peace of mind to your family.

By documenting your wishes and appointing a trusted Agent, you take an essential step toward ensuring your values and preferences guide your care. Don’t wait to start this important conversation. Alberta offers ample resources to help you create an Advance Care Plan that reflects your unique needs and values.

For more information, contact the Office of the Public Guardian or speak to your healthcare provider about advance care planning resources in your community.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional financial, legal, or medical advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for guidance specific to your individual circumstances.