Making Your Health Care Wishes Known - How to Plan and Talk About End-of-Life Decisions

Name: Making Your Health Care Wishes Known - How to Plan and Talk About End-of-Life Decisions
Start: 2026-04-16T14:00:00-04:00
Location: Northampton Elks Lodge No. 997

Schedule

Thu, 16 Apr, 2026 at 02:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Northampton Elks Lodge No. 997 | Florence, MA

In a world where uncertainty is part of our daily lives, one of the most meaningful steps we can take is to talk openly about our health care wishes—especially the choices we hope will guide our care as we approach the end of life. When we clearly express our values and preferences, we not only empower ourselves but also offer our loved ones the gift of clarity during challenging moments.
We invite you to be part of an enlightening panel discussion that brings these essential topics to the forefront. Together, we’ll explore the many dimensions of self‑advocacy—from designating a health care proxy to understanding the full range of options available to Veterans. This conversation is designed to help you make informed, confident decisions that honor your priorities and support those who may one day speak on your behalf.
-Jenny Hutchison, Clinical Director, Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice will introduce the essential concepts behind advance directives and key legal documents such as a health care proxy and a living will.
-Priscilla M. Ross, RN, POLST Program Director, Massachusetts
Executive Office of Aging and Independence will focus on the
importance of early conversations about prognosis and treatment options for patients with serious illness, and how to ensure their treatment choices are documented and honored.
-Karen Miller, RN, Hospice Manager, Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, will explore the full range of burial options, from
traditional cremation to environmentally conscious green burial
practices.
-Steven Connor, Director of Central Hampshire Veterans Services, will outline the end‑of‑life benefits available to Veterans, along with additional Veteran support programs.
To RSVP, contact Kelly at 413-582-5330 or email
[email protected]
Light refreshments will be served and there will be time afterwards for questions. Questions? Contact Kelly at 413-582-5330