How to complete an SA advance care directive form
The SA ACD form combines medical directives with SDM appointment. Here's how to work through it.
The SA advance care directive form has five main sections: your details, your substitute decision-maker(s), your values and beliefs, specific wishes for medical and lifestyle care, and witnessing. The form is completed with an authorised witness who certifies your capacity.
Your details and capacity declaration
Full legal name, address, date of birth. You'll also make a statement about your current capacity and understanding of the document.
Substitute decision-maker
Name your SDM(s). For multiple SDMs, specify joint (must agree) or several (each can act alone). Include alternate SDMs in case the primary is unavailable.
Your values and beliefs
Personal, sometimes religious or philosophical, statements about how you want to live and be cared for. These guide the SDM when specific decisions need to be made.
Specific instructions
Medical instructions: CPR preferences, feeding tube preferences, pain management preferences, surgery preferences. Lifestyle instructions: where you want to live if you can't live at home, pets, religious practice. Refusals of treatment: specific treatments you don't want.
Signing and witnessing
Signed by you in the presence of an authorised witness. The witness certifies your capacity and that you understood the document. Sam is an authorised witness.
Common mistakes
Using vague language where specific instructions would help (‘I want quality of life’ vs ‘I don't want artificial feeding if I have advanced dementia’). Not updating after health changes. Not distributing copies to care providers.
Summary
The SA ACD form combines medical directives with SDM appointment. Here's how to work through it.
Talk to Sam about your situation
If this article raised questions for your own circumstances, Sam Michele offers free 20-minute initial consultations. Learn more about our advance care directive service, or book a consultation.
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Disclaimer: This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Estate planning is deeply personal - every family's circumstances are different. For advice specific to your situation, please contact Rosewood Succession Solicitors.