Planning ahead can be difficult, especially when you’re living with cancer or caring for someone who is. However, thinking about your future wishes early can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Planning ahead is not about expecting the worst. It is about ensuring that the care you receive reflects your values, preferences and priorities, while making it easier for your family to make decisions if they are ever needed.
You do not have to complete everything at once. These conversations can happen over time and should take place when you feel ready.
Why planning ahead matters
Planning ahead gives you the opportunity to:
- Make informed decisions about your future healthcare.
- Share your wishes with your loved ones.
- Reduce uncertainty during stressful situations.
- Help your family feel more confident if they need to make decisions on your behalf.
These conversations can also help ensure that your healthcare team understands what matters most to you.
Start the conversation
Talking about future care can feel uncomfortable, but many people find that having these conversations early brings reassurance rather than anxiety.
You may wish to talk to:
- Your family or loved ones
- Your healthcare team
- A trusted friend
- A counsellor or Medical Social Worker
Some topics you may wish to discuss include:
- Your healthcare priorities
- Where you would prefer to receive care if your condition changes
- Who you trust to help make decisions if you are unable to do so
- What quality of life means to you
Remember that your wishes may change over time. It is okay to revisit these conversations as your circumstances change.
Advance Care Planning (ACP)
Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a voluntary process that allows you to discuss and document your healthcare preferences for future situations where you may no longer be able to make or communicate decisions yourself.
ACP focuses on understanding what is important to you and helps guide your loved ones and healthcare team when making future care decisions.
Speak to your healthcare team if you would like to find out whether ACP is suitable for you and how to begin the process.
Advance Medical Directive (AMD)
An Advance Medical Directive (AMD) is a legal document that lets you decide in advance whether you wish to receive extraordinary life-sustaining treatment if you become terminally ill and are no longer able to communicate your wishes.
An AMD only applies under specific medical circumstances defined by law.
If you are considering making an AMD, speak to your doctor so you fully understand what it means before making your decision.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to do so in the future.
An LPA can cover decisions relating to your personal welfare, property and financial matters.
Making an LPA while you still have mental capacity allows you to choose someone you trust to act in your best interests.
Making a will
Making a will allows you to decide how your assets should be distributed after your death.
It can also help reduce uncertainty and potential disputes for your loved ones.
If you wish to make a will, consider seeking advice from a qualified legal professional to ensure your wishes are clearly documented.
Your wishes can change
Planning ahead is not a one-time decision.
As your health, circumstances or priorities change, you may wish to review your plans and have further conversations with your loved ones and healthcare team.
Keeping your family informed about any changes can help ensure your wishes continue to be respected.
Planning ahead is about peace of mind
Many people find that making plans early allows them to focus more fully on living in the present, knowing that their wishes have been considered and communicated.
There is no right or wrong time to begin these conversations. Start when you feel ready, and take one step at a time.
Continue exploring
You may also find these resources helpful:
Palliative and Hospice Care
Learn about palliative care, home hospice services and support available for patients and families living with advanced illness.
Organising Care and Navigating the Healthcare System
Find practical guidance on coordinating appointments, healthcare information and support services.
We're here to support you
Planning ahead can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate these conversations alone. Singapore Cancer Society provides services and programmes to support patients and families as they make decisions about future care and practical matters.
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