Thinking about the future can feel uncomfortable.
Many families avoid these conversations because they worry they are bringing something up too soon, or that planning ahead means someone is losing their independence.
In reality, planning ahead is not about expecting the worst. It is about keeping choices open, understanding what matters to the person, and making sure their voice remains central if things change.
As Occupational Therapists, we often see how helpful it can be when families have these conversations early. When a crisis happens, decisions can feel rushed and overwhelming. Having a better understanding of a person’s wishes, routines, values, and preferences can help guide decisions in a way that reflects who they are.
Start with the person, not the problem
Planning ahead is not just about thinking about future care needs. It starts with understanding the person.
Consider conversations such as:
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What does a good day look like for you?
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What activities are most important for you to continue?
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What helps you feel independent?
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What support would make life easier?
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Who would you want involved if things became more difficult?
These conversations help families move away from focusing only on risks and instead think about what they are trying to protect — the person's independence, identity, choices, and quality of life.
Small steps can make a big difference
Thinking ahead does not need to happen all at once.
It might include:
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Keeping important information organised
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Knowing what services and supports are available locally
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Understanding the person's preferences around future support
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Making sure family members know what matters most to them
Resources are available to help people begin these conversations and record important information, wishes and preferences.
Planning is a conversation, not a one-time decision
People change. Circumstances change. What feels right today may be different in the future.
The goal is not to make every decision now. It is to create opportunities for open conversations so that, if things do change, decisions are not being made without understanding the person behind them.
A Note from an OT
One of the most important things we can do in Occupational Therapy is understand what gives someone's life meaning.
When planning ahead, it can be easy to focus only on what might become difficult — mobility, health, or safety concerns. But good planning also asks:
“What are we trying to help this person continue doing?”
For one person, that may be staying in their own home. For another, it may be continuing a hobby, seeing family, maintaining a routine, or feeling involved in everyday decisions.
Keeping the person at the centre is what makes support truly meaningful.