Arc Of Illness

 
Though every illness is different, most follow a similar “arc” with a beginning, middle and end. Some illnesses last for days or weeks, others last years or even decades. The Arc of Illness is designed as an organising strategy for information, tools, and resources to help caregivers and friends of caregivers.

Arc of illness

beginning

middle

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The “end” of the arc of illness can have a positive outcome – a return to good health.  This of course is what families hope for. However, the resources under this heading are for when an illness does not have a good outcome. The End Resources include information to help families plan, communicate, coordinate, and prioritize near the end of life. It also has resources to help understand end of life wishes and advance directives.

Aging With Dignity

A nonprofit organisation advocating for the care of the elderly nearing the end of life. Its “Five Wishes” advance direct address medical needs at the end of life as well as emotional and spiritual needs. 888-594-7437. Visit Page>>

Caring Connections

Caring Connections, a program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organisation (NHPCO), is a national consumer and community engagement initiative to improve care at the end of life. Visit Page>>

Commission On Law And Aging From The American Bar Association

For Tool Kit for Health Care Advance Planning visit website. Visit Page>>

Dying Well

Dr. Ira Byock, past president of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, provides written resources and referrals for patients and families facing life-limiting illness and their professional caregivers. Visit Page>>

FamilyDoctor.org From The American Academy Of Family Physicians

For: Advance Directives and Do Not Resuscitate Orders. Visit Page>>

Hospice Foundation Of America

End of life resources for patients and families. Visit Page>>

National Cancer Institute

Visit website for information on Advance Directives. Visit Page>>

On Our Own Terms: Moyers On Dying

In a four-part, six-hour series, Bill Moyers crosses the country from hospitals to hospices to homes to capture stories and candid conversations from multiple perspectives on this topic. The website features end-of-life care resources and community action plans as well as providing readers with the tools to engage in an ongoing dialogue about facing the end of life. Visit Page>>