Maryland State Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah wants to change the way Marylanders think about and plan for care at the end of life.

To encourage more discussions between family members on this sensitive topic, and to help plan for future care, the state's Department of Aging launched a statewide distribution of Five Wishes -- a document that enables individuals to specify exactly how they wish to be treated if they become seriously ill and unable to speak for themselves.

The free booklet is an advance health directive that guides individuals through the process of health care decision-making and assists families and health care providers in ensuring that a person's wishes are respected and followed.

"Five Wishes is part of a national call-to-action to enable our citizens to age in place with dignity and respect," Lawlah said. "We encourage all seniors, their family members, and caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity to plan ahead for some of life's most important decisions."

For a copy or answers to questions about services and programs for seniors and caregivers, call the Maryland Department of Aging at 410-767-1100 or go to www.mdoa.state.md.us.

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