Advanced Decision Making – Brain Donation

Advance decision-making is a proactive process for planning end-of-life care, often formalized as an “advance directive.” This legal document is part of estate planning. Your Advance Directive outlines a person’s wish for medical treatments and interventions before they become urgent. It’s particularly crucial for those caring for individuals with special needs.

The Benefits of an Advance Directive:

• Provides clarity during difficult situations
• Offers peace of mind to decision-makers
• Can be adjusted as needed
• Helps avoid stress in emotional times
• Important to understand the patient’s baseline behaviors and quality of life

For Caregivers:

• Create a communication plan for healthcare teams
• Consider discussing topics gradually, especially with younger patients
• Remember that decisions like hospice or DNR can be revoked
• Allows additional time to process difficult decisions and the emotions that arise

Resources:

• Advance Decision Making Planning Sheet for preparation
• Acute Care Decision Making Sheet for immediate situations
• Tissue donation options are available. Anyone who wishes to consider donation of whole brain tissue for research purposes after a loved one passing should contact the University of Maryland Brain and Tissue Bank (UMBTB) at btbumab@som.umaryland.edu

Planning ahead empowers caregivers and ensures dignified care aligned with the patient’s wishes.

Updated 09/25/24 (KK)