Discussing Advance Directives with Clients: Lessons from COVID

In Partnership with NASW-IL

Discussing Advance Directives with Clients: Lessons Learned from COVID
Date: Monday, October 24th from 9:00 - 10:30 AM
Presenter: Nancy Betker, MSW, LCSW & Amy Sherman, JD
CEUs: 1.5 / $23 Nonmember / $10 NASW Member
Description: COVID-19 has forced all of us to face our own mortality as we assist clients dealing with the trauma of illness, isolation and loss. Being prepared for the end of life is a gift to oneself and to loved ones. Yet most people avoid advance care planning, and this can lead to conflict and chaos during a serious illness like COVID-19. Presenters will talk about why it is important, as social workers, to address this topic with clients and discuss end-of-life care options. Social workers can play an important role in helping clients be more prepared through advance care planning and education about healthcare decisions. We can help clients start the conversation with their family about their wishes and guide clients and family members to helpful resources. At this session, advance directives (Durable Powers of Attorneys for Healthcare), continuums of care choices, and end-of-life options will be reviewed. Supplements to advance directives will also be discussed, including a COVID-19 Toolkit. Attendees will learn about free online tools that provide a step-by-step process for advance care planning. As therapists, we can introduce this topic in healthy and proactive ways. Therapists working with marginalized populations will also learn strategies to begin this dialogue with traditionally underprepared persons or groups. This information is also essential for social workers to have in order in their own lives. The presenters will facilitate a dialogue through Power Point, videos, and questions and answers. Attendees will engage in group exercises. Handouts will be provided.
Virtual Platform: Zoom

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