COVID-19 Resources

Light the Legacy is happy to be able to share Respecting Choices COVID-19 tools and resources that are currently free and open to all, and include:

• Resources to have Planning Conversations in COVID-19
  
• Tools to support specific treatment decisions
  
• Resources for individuals

The fear and uncertainty related to the spread of COVID-19 is real, and it is understandable. We are all feeling it, both personally and professionally. We are being called upon to support each other in new and different ways, in all domains of life.

Individuals and their families who are at highest risk for complications and death from this infection are feeling especially vulnerable. No one can eliminate the uncertainty about whether they will get sick, or how sick they will become. But there is a way to limit the uncertainty, through proactively asking about the type of care they want, should they become severely ill. Knowing this information also limits the uncertainty for their loved ones and for the clinical teams who can confidently create a plan that aligns with what matters most to each individual.

One clinician shared this experience with us: “Our Division of Geriatrics/Home-Based Primary Care has been working with vulnerable frail elders and their agents/families to have unbiased, proactive care planning conversations regarding their goals should they contract Covid-19. Most of these interactions are via phone. We have received nothing but RELIEF by asking these questions ahead of time about what they would want and preparing agents for a possible decision-making role.”

Respecting Choices is receiving many similar stories describing opportunities to provide empathetic care to those that are worried and thinking about this. When given a voice, individuals are reassured. Some may express a goal to avoid unwanted care. This will create a challenge for healthcare delivery because once desired preferences are identified, systems must be in place to honor them. For example, if individuals want to avoid hospitalization, resources need to be in place to give the aggressive symptom management that may be needed.

Health systems who have not yet seen an influx of people with COVID-19 have a window of opportunity to assist with these proactive care planning conversations.

We recognize these types of conversations are new and unfamiliar for many clinicians, and this tool kit is intended to support you. Building on our 20 years of experience and research, Respecting Choices has adapted these tools for use as stand-alone materials, without additional online or in-person educational requirements, and all are specific to COVID-19.

Thank you for all that you do. Stay safe and healthy!