As individuals journey through life, they encounter various stages that necessitate careful planning, especially regarding ageing and healthcare decisions. The unpredictability of life underscores the importance of early preparation, as unforeseen circumstances can arise at any stage, regardless of age or health status. By encouraging individuals to start planning early, SATA CommHealth recognises the potential implications of delaying important decisions. Whether individuals are in their twenties, thirties, or beyond, taking proactive steps to outline healthcare preferences and designate trusted representatives can provide invaluable peace of mind and security for the future.
A recent survey of 1,000 Singaporeans aged 30 to 79 found that most people were not aware of an LPA. The low awareness percentage for LPA and ACP was due to the lack of knowledge of such programmes and the perception of troublesome processes for their application. These findings underscore the critical need for accessible resources and support mechanisms to bridge knowledge gaps and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their future healthcare and financial arrangements.
Moreover, initiating ACP and LPA discussions at a younger age allows individuals to engage with their families proactively and loved ones, fostering open communication and understanding about their wishes and intentions. By normalising conversations about ageing, illness, and end-of-life care, SATA CommHealth empowers individuals to navigate challenging topics with greater confidence and clarity, strengthening familial bonds and relationships in the process and making pre-planning for old age more accessible and effective.
Case Manager Mr Sammy Leong in a consultation session
What is ACP?
ACP involves discussing and documenting an individual’s healthcare preferences and goals for treatment, particularly in situations where they may not be able to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This proactive approach encourages individuals to reflect on their values, beliefs, and healthcare preferences.
Why is ACP important?
ACP serves to ease the decision-making burden on your loved ones, allowing them more time to offer support and spend more time by your side.
What is LPA?
LPA complements ACP by legally appointing trusted individuals, known as attorneys, to make decisions on behalf of the individual should they lose mental capacity. This legal document empowers individuals to designate someone they trust to manage their affairs, including healthcare, finances, and welfare, per their wishes.
Why is the LPA important?
In the absence of an LPA, acquiring a court order becomes necessary to oversee your affairs in case of mental incapacity. This process can be lengthy and financially taxing.
Moreover, without an LPA, you forfeit the opportunity to designate your preferred representative. With an LPA in place, this hassle is avoided, and you can choose a trusted person to act in your best interests.
Difference between ACP and LPA
| LPA | ACP | |
| Type | Legal | Planning document |
| Purpose | To appoint 1 or 2 donee(s) to make decisions or act on your behalf if mental capacity is lost | To document health treatment and care preferences |
| When it takes effect | Upon loss of mental capacity | A medical crisis when one is unable to speak or make decisions |
Source: SATA CommHealth 2021 Annual Report
Community outreach by SATA CommHealth
Case Manager Mr Sammy Leong sharing about ACP and LPA
SATA CommHealth case managers have been working closely with the Public Service Division and Agency for Integrated Care to provide a one-stop service to beneficiaries who want to sign up for ACP and LPA. The range of services includes talks and workshops in-person or online, assisting beneficiaries in preparing and completing the necessary forms to arrange the final endorsement by a health professional. SATA CommHealth will continue to partner with government agencies and community partners in the coming year to create awareness and increase the sign-up rate.
For more information on ACP and LPA, please visit: https://www.sata.com.sg/acpandlpa/
Now, you can complete your ACP and LPA at any one of our medical centres.
SATA CommHealth Hotline: +65 6244 6688, Email: [email protected]
Updates on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sata.commhealth
Contributed by Mr Sammy Leong, Case Manager of SATA CommHealth
Images: SATA CommHealth
