Keep the person’s values visible in everyday care
Legal documents are essential, but they rarely capture the daily details of dignity, comfort, identity, and routine. A preferences guide helps family members and paid caregivers understand how the person wants to be treated.
This printable records the health care agent and document locations, then focuses on what matters most: personal-care preferences, privacy, possible care settings, visitors, faith or cultural practices, food, routines, hospital comfort, and nonmedical things the person would not want.
Center the person’s voice
- Complete the page with the person wherever possible and write their words directly.
- Share the sheet with the health care agent, key family members, and caregivers who need it.
- Revisit the preferences after a major health change or whenever the person expresses something different.
In an emergency, call 911 and follow valid legal documents, medical orders, and the care team’s instructions.