Understanding End-of-Life Affairs for Winter Visitors in Arizona

As individuals age, arranging their legal affairs becomes crucial. Creating wills, living wills, powers of attorney, and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders are common practices. However, for winter visitors in Arizona, there are specific considerations highlighted by McKenna Reinhard, a specialist in caregiving and end-of-life matters associated with the Pima Council on Aging.

DNR Orders in Arizona: The Importance of Specificity

Reinhard emphasizes the significance of the color and validation of DNR forms in Arizona. State law mandates that DNR forms must be orange and signed by an Arizona physician. Forms from other states, such as the canary yellow from Florida or the purple form from Missouri, possess differing language and cannot be merely transcribed onto orange paper. This differentiation can affect how first-responders interpret and act upon these forms.

Ensuring Effectiveness of DNR Directives

Regarding the practical application of DNR orders, Reinhard points out the uncertainty surrounding paramedics’ thorough review of these forms during emergencies. To ensure the enforcement of their wishes, winter visitors serious about their DNR directives should arrange appointments with local physicians to acquire the appropriate orange-form DNRs.

Importance of Documentation and Preparedness

One notable challenge Reinhard mentions is individuals expressing their preference not to be resuscitated but failing to carry their DNR forms. To address this, she advises scheduling appointments with healthcare providers in Arizona and bringing copies of their original DNR forms from their home state to demonstrate the decision’s authenticity and seriousness.

Longevity and Updates of DNR Directives

Reinhard assures that once a DNR form is completed and validated, it remains effective indefinitely, even across different medical practitioners or geographical locations. Unless explicitly revoked, there’s no need for periodic updates, even if one’s doctor retires.

Recommendations for Winter Visitors

In addition to DNR forms, Reinhard strongly recommends winter visitors to bring copies of their wills, living wills, and powers of attorney to Arizona. These documents, along with the properly executed DNR forms, contribute to a comprehensive end-of-life plan, ensuring that an individual’s wishes are honored in different medical and legal scenarios.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of DNR orders and the importance of specific documentation is critical for winter visitors in Arizona. By adhering to state-specific requirements, obtaining validated forms, and ensuring preparedness with comprehensive documentation, individuals can effectively communicate their end-of-life preferences and receive appropriate care in accordance with their wishes.

Sources: Pima Council on Aging, State Laws on DNR Orders, End-of-Life Planning Guides