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Blocks with quotes of why people think they may not need to plan

No one wants to think about illness and death. And if you’re young and healthy, you may feel you can get away with not thinking about it. But we can't predict the future. No one can know if or when they might get sick or become mentally incapable. Planning will set you up to live well, on your own terms — from the day you really need help until the end. Learn essential information you need to know when planning for your future care.

Why you should plan

Building blocks to understand planning

Learn what documents you might need 

Steven

I'm not waiting for a crisis. I want to plan now for potential incapacity later.

Amy and Janet

I'm an adult with an intellectual disability, or who has suffered a traumatic brain injury. Or I'm a caregiver of an adult in this situation.

Sam and Lisa

I am caring for an older adult with declining cognitive ability who needs help making decisions now.

Dolleen

I'm a capable adult, and am currently experiencing a health crisis.

Who can help

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Kevin Smith, Retired lawyer and consultant

Kevin Smith

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This website explains in a general way the law that applies in British Columbia, Canada. The information is not intended as legal advice. The cases we refer to reflect real experiences, but names have been changed. See our full disclaimer.

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We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.