Why Advance Care Planning Matters: Having a Say in Your Future
Getting older is a natural part of life, and with it comes the opportunity to plan for the future with confidence and peace of mind. While none of us can predict what is ahead, so taking the time to think about your future care, health, lifestyle and personal wishes can help ensure your voice is heard and your choices are respected.
Advance Care Planning is a positive and empowering process that puts you at the centre of decision-making. It allows you to reflect on what matters most, communicate your preferences with those closest to you, and provide clear guidance should there come a time when you are unable to make decisions for yourself. By planning ahead, you’re not only taking control of your future, you’re also giving your family and loved ones clarity, comfort and reassurance.
What is Advance Care Planning?
Advance Care Planning is the process of thinking about, discussing and documenting your values, preferences and future care wishes.
It allows you to:
- maintain choice and control over future decisions.
- help ensure your values and preferences are respected.
- reduce stress and uncertainty for family members and loved ones.
- help healthcare professionals provide care that aligns with your wishes.
- plan for future health and personal care decisions.
Importantly, Advance Care Planning is not just for older people or those with serious illnesses. Every adult can benefit from having these conversations and making their wishes known.
Starting the conversation
Many people put off discussing future care because they feel uncomfortable or think there is plenty of time. However, having conversations early can make a significant difference.
Advance Care Planning encourages you to reflect on questions such as:
- What matters most to me in life?
- What are my values and priorities?
- Who would I trust to make decisions on my behalf if I couldn’t?
- What type of care would I want in different circumstances?
Discussing these topics with family members, loved ones and healthcare providers can help ensure everyone understands your wishes.
Understanding palliative care and future care options
Advance Care Planning also provides an opportunity to learn more about palliative care and when it may be appropriate.
Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people living with life-limiting illness and can be provided alongside other treatments. Understanding the role of palliative care helps individuals and families make informed decisions about future care and support.
Putting your wishes in writing
A key part of Advance Care Planning is documenting your preferences through legal and healthcare documents such as:
- Advance Health Directives
- Enduring Power of Guardianship
- Other documents that record your care wishes and decision-makers
Having these documents in place can provide clarity and confidence for everyone involved.
Join our free Advance Care Planning Workshop
Southcare is partnering with Palliative Care WA to host a free community workshop designed to help you understand Advance Care Planning and take the first steps towards documenting your wishes.
Free Advance Care Planning Workshop
Friday 20 November 2026
10am–12 noon, including morning tea
Southcare’s Community Hall, John Hardwick Centre
19 Pether Road Manning
Free to attend
What you’ll learn
- What Advance Care Planning involves
- How to identify what matters most to you
- How to discuss your wishes with family, loved ones and healthcare providers
- What palliative care is and when it should be offered
- How to complete important documents such as an Advance Health Directive and Enduring Power of Guardianship
Delivered by the experienced team at Palliative Care WA, this informative and interactive workshop will provide practical guidance and answer your questions in a supportive environment.
Take control of your future
Advance Care Planning is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones. By taking the time to consider your wishes and put plans in place, you can help ensure your wishes are understood and guide your future care, even if you are unable to make or communicate decisions for yourself.
Spaces are limited, so we encourage community members, carers and family members to register and join us for this important and empowering free workshop.
About Southcare
Southcare is a trusted, registered aged care provider in Perth, providing personalised in-home aged care services, community support and community connect programs that empower older adults to live their best life at home. Whether you’re seeking everyday assistance or specialised support at home, our caring hands and golden hearts are here when you need them most. It’s your care, your way.
- Visit us at 53 Bickley Crescent, Manning WA 6152
- Call 9450 6233 to talk about switching your care or signing up for care
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