People live in a web of social ties and often fear dying in isolation. Dying offers important opportunities for growth, intimacy, reconciliation and closure in relationships. To summarize, ACP is a process of communication that helps people prepare for death in the context of their loved ones. But often when we think of ACP we think of advance directive forms. ACP is a process of communication, and AD forms are best viewed as an assisting device embedded in the ACP process.
Many people consider themselves satisfied with their ACP without completion of an AD form.
They use ACP to prepare for dying, and are often satisfied that discussions achieve that goal. Thus, an AD form is not simply a legal document that records a person's proxy choice and treatment preferences. In addition, when substitute decision makers must make difficult decisions concerning life-sustaining treatments, AD forms can provide guidance and support which may mitigate any guilt decision makers might experience over their decisions. However, ACP is only one piece in the broader picture of end of life care. From the perspective of patients, Of Life and Death was right on target.