top of page
Search

National Healthcare Decisions Day: Why Every Nebraska Adult Needs an Advance Care Plan

Brenda Soto


April 16th is National Healthcare Decisions Day.


Most people in Nebraska have never heard of it. Yet it addresses one of the most important conversations a family can have.


Who will speak for you if you cannot speak for yourself?


At Aging Ally, we work with adults and families across Nebraska who are suddenly facing medical decisions without a plan in place. Emotions run high. Confusion sets in. Family members disagree. Doctors need answers quickly.


Advance care planning changes everything.


If you live in Nebraska and have aging parents or are over the age of 18 yourself, this is your reminder to put a plan in place.



What Is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning is the process of documenting your medical wishes before a crisis happens

.

In Nebraska, this typically includes:

• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare 

• Living Will 

• Clear documentation of treatment preferences 

• A conversation with your chosen decision maker


It is not only for seniors.


Every adult over 18 should have a healthcare decision maker designated. Accidents and unexpected illnesses do not discriminate by age.



Why Nebraska Families Struggle Without a Plan

When there is no documented healthcare decision maker, families often face:

• Delays in treatment decisions 

• Disagreements among siblings 

• Guilt and uncertainty 

• Court involvement in some cases


Even loving families can struggle when emotions are high and wishes were never clearly discussed.


One of the most common things I hear from adult children caring for aging parents in Nebraska is this:


“We never talked about what Mom would want.”


Advance care planning gives families clarity instead of confusion.



Common Misunderstandings About Living Wills and Medical Power of Attorney

Many people assume:


“I am healthy. I do not need this yet.”


Or


“My spouse automatically makes decisions.”


In reality, healthcare systems require legal documentation. Without it, providers may be limited in what they can share or who can make decisions.


Another misconception is that a Living Will covers everything. It does not.


A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare allows someone you trust to make decisions in real time, based on your values and medical condition.


Having both documents provides stronger protection.



How Advance Care Planning Protects Your Family

Advance care planning is not about expecting the worst.


It is about protecting the people you love from unnecessary stress.


When your wishes are documented:

• Doctors receive clear direction 

• Your decision maker feels confident 

• Siblings avoid conflict

• Your faith and values guide your care


As a Registered Nurse and healthcare advocate serving Nebraska families, I have seen firsthand how peace comes when a plan is in place.



Practical Steps to Start This April

If you want to honor National Healthcare Decisions Day in a meaningful way, here are simple next steps:

  1. Identify your healthcare decision maker

  2. Have a conversation about your values and preferences

  3. Complete Nebraska specific advance directive forms

  4. Share copies with your provider and family

  5. Keep documents organized and accessible


If you are unsure where to begin, professional healthcare navigation and advocacy support can help you walk through the process with clarity.



A Faith Centered Perspective on Planning Ahead

Planning does not mean fear.


It means stewardship.


Scripture reminds us that wisdom prepares. Advance care planning is an act of love and responsibility toward your family.


At Aging Ally, our mission is to guide adults through healthcare with advocacy, compassion, and faith. We serve families across Nebraska who want to move from uncertainty to confidence in their healthcare decisions.


If you need help understanding advance directives, medical power of attorney in Nebraska, or how to start these conversations with aging parents, we offer a complimentary 20 minute discovery call.


This April, give your family the gift of clarity.


Guided by experience. Rooted in Christ.


Call: 531-893-1546

Learn more at: www.agingally.org

bottom of page