The plan provides an ideal opportunity to discuss and record in writing your views with those who are close to you. It will help you to be clear about the decisions you make and help them understand what is important to you.

The downloadable planning booklet (below) will help guide you through the process to record your wishes in writing so that they can be carried out at the appropriate time.

Remember that your feelings and priorities may change over time. You have choices in what may happen in the future such as being able to remain living independently at home.

You can change what you have written whenever you wish to and it would be advisable to review your plan regularly (every 3–6 months) to make sure that it still reflects what you want.

Remember to sign and date this document when you review it so that it is clear to others.

Absolutely not. Thinking about all this can be difficult but you don't have to do it all today.

The booklet is not designed to be completed all at once. It can be filled in over a period of time, as and when you feel comfortable to do so, but a good place to start is Section One “Statement of your wishes and care preferences”

Come back to it when you are ready and talk to your family members about your wishes if it helps.