Planning ahead for medical care at life's end--who does, who doesn't, and who should? This study asked questions of people in their mid to late 60's, but IMO younger people need a plan, too. Just look at poor Terri Schiavo, who collapsed at age 26 in 1990 and, having never regained consciousness, was finally allowed to die at age 41 just two years ago.

Study data came from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (WLS), a unique 50-year study of more than 10,000 men and women, now in their mid-60s, who graduated from Wisconsin high schools in 1957. Over 7000 of the WLS participants provided info, via phone interviews and mail questionnaires, regarding their plans for end-of-life care. The results aren't surprising.

The researchers' next question to explore: "Does end-of-life planning do any good" The assumption now is that having a DPAHC will reduce family suffering and ensure the loved one's wishes are carried out. But the true effectiveness of people's choices has yet to be examined."

Important clip methinks.