Abstract
PROBLEM: How to ensure that residents of a multilevel long-term care facility are able to indicate treatment preferences for the future (when they will be unable to participate in decision making). OBJECTIVE OF PROGRAM: To review the methods used to create a "living will" document suitable for a long-term care population that can be used as a guide and template for other long-term care populations. MAIN COMPONENTS OF THE PROGRAM: The process includes gathering information, developing possible models, designing the document, the review process, and implementing the document. CONCLUSIONS: Developing a living will document is not a simple process. The design should suit the population for whom the document is developed. Primary care physicians, other health care providers, and clergy should provide input.
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