Planning for the Future
Neurological Alliance of Ireland and Irish Hospice Foundation booklet
This booklet Planning for the future Information for people who have an advancing neurological illness is for people who have an advancing neurological illness and who want to make plans for their future. It may also be useful for family, friends, carers and health professionals. It is not recommended for people who have been recently diagnosed. If you are recently diagnosed please contact HDAI for information and support.
Advanced Care Directives
An Advance Healthcare Directive, sometimes known as a 'living will', is a statement about the type and extent of medical or surgical treatment you want in the future, on the assumption that you will not be able to make that decision at the relevant time. The Citizens Information website has further information available on Advanced Care Directives
The Irish Hospice Foundation has a range of resources available:
I Want To Think Ahead - Irish Hospice Foundation
Decision Support Service
The role of the Decision Support Service (DSS) is to promote the rights and interests of people who may need support with decision-making as provided for in the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015, operational from April 26, 2023. A core principle of the Act is that all persons have the presumption of capacity and should be supported to make their own decisions as far as is possible. The Act emphasises minimal restriction of a person’s rights and freedoms and the importance of respect for will and preferences.
The DSS is a new state service for all adults who may need support with their decision-making capacity, and anyone who wishes to plan ahead by way of an enduring power of attorney or an advance healthcare directive. Adults who may have difficulties with decision-making capacity could include adults with an intellectual disability, a mental illness, an acquired brain injury, or those with neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington’s disease or dementia.
The DSS website provides information about the service and has codes of practice and resources available. For further information see: www.decisionsupportservice.ie
