[Archived] Advance Planning to Highlight National Healthcare Decisions Day in April

For Immediate Release: April 8, 2015

During a formal designation on April 16, the City of Alexandria Department on Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) and Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) are leading a city-wide effort for National Healthcare Decisions Day.

As a participating organization, DAAS will provide information about advance healthcare decision-planning, encouraging the public to start the conversation with family, friends and healthcare providers.  Guidance will be provided on documenting healthcare wishes and making decisions known in accordance with Virginia state laws.

On April 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., SSA will be hosting their April speaker series, “Aging in Place,” at Beth El Hebrew Congregation located at 3830 Seminary Rd., Alexandria, VA 22304. Pre-registration is required by calling 703.836.4414, ext.110. Free information about advance healthcare planning, Five Wishes, living wills and advance directives will be available.

National Healthcare Decisions Day aims to equip more people in our community with the ability to have the conversation about their healthcare decisions before a crisis occurs. By documenting healthcare decisions for families and professional healthcare providers, the appropriate individuals will have a guide to making decisions in the event someone is unable to speak for themselves.

For more information about National Healthcare Decision Day, contact DC Danh at 703.746.5999, visit www.NHDD.org or www.alexandriava.gov/Aging.