THE 5 STEPS

Your Support Can Help Us Continue

“I have been keeping track of surgeries, medications, etc. but it never dawned on me to keep track of procedures like mammograms & colonoscopies. They even asked me about it at the hospital this morning & I couldn't answer.” A TakeCHARGE Volunteer

​1. Complete your advance directives. "Advance directives" is a general name for several kinds of documents you can sign to help ensure that your wishes about medical treatment are known and respected if you are unable to communicate for yourself.

2. Keep track of your medical history and medications and bring this information with you to every medical appointment

3. Prepare a list of questions and symptoms before you visit your doctor or go for a procedure or to the hospital

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4. Help stop the spread of infections. Ask caregivers to wash their hands before touching you

Learn how here

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5. Choose an advocate and be an advocate for someone

Learn how here

THE 5 STEPS

1. Complete your advance directives. "Advance directives" is a general name for several kinds of documents you can sign to help ensure that your wishes about medical treatment are known and respected if you are unable to communicate for yourself.