TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATING SENIORS ABOUT ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Advances in medical technology are changing the lives of older adults in both positive and negative ways. Health care professionals are now able to sustain life through aggressive measures, sometimes resulting in poorer quality of life. Advance directives allow individuals to maintain control of their own health care should a time come when they are critically ill and unable to communicate their health care wishes. The use of technology can be appreciated by older adults and their families for its role in preserving life. However, by completing an advance directive, an individual can eliminate the fear of prolonging the dying process. To receive the full benefit of advance directives and understand their purpose and use, older adults need to be educated about advanced medical technology and its use. This article discusses the necessity and importance of educating seniors about advance directives.