Advance Care Planning and End of Life Care: A Guide to Tools and Resources for Patients and Providers

Advance care planning (ACP) is a process that starts with having a conversation and choosing a healthcare proxy or agent, completing a personal directive, or living will, and then sharing those wishes with the appropriate healthcare providers. ACP conversations are most effective when started before a crisis and re-visited periodically, since personal care preferences may change as circumstances change over time. This guide provides a curated list of tools and resources to support patients and providers through the ACP process, and serious illness or end-of-life care conversations.

American Heart Association Support Network

Dealing with a heart or stroke condition can be complex, and recovery can be more manageable with the right kind of emotional support. A community of survivors and caregivers who’ve had similar experiences help patients and caregivers find their footing on the path to better health.