Honoring Your Wishes: The Importance of Advance Directives

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By Nicolas Chronos, MD, FACC, FESC

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with a local funeral director to discuss the critical role that advance directives play in healthcare and funeral planning. Our conversation reinforced just how beneficial these documents can be—not only in ensuring that your healthcare preferences are honored but also in helping relieve the emotional burden on your loved ones during a difficult time. As we recognize the importance of planning ahead, I wanted to share this valuable information with our community.

What Are Advance Directives?

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your healthcare preferences in the event you become incapacitated and are unable to communicate your wishes. It includes decisions about life-saving measures, such as whether to administer CPR, use a ventilator, or provide other interventions. But advance directives go beyond just medical care—they can also include instructions for your final arrangements, such as burial or cremation preferences.

Why Are Advance Directives Essential?

Advance directives provide peace of mind by ensuring your wishes are clear and respected. When you create one, you take control of your healthcare decisions, alleviating the need for loved ones to make these difficult choices on your behalf. According to the American Bar Association, advance directives are a critical part of maintaining your autonomy, even when you might not be able to speak for yourself.

Having an advance directive in place can also reduce confusion and potential conflict among family members, especially when it comes to making decisions about end-of-life care. An advance directive not only helps with medical care but also guides final arrangements, ensuring that family members can follow your wishes without uncertainty.

The Role of Funeral Homes

You might be surprised to learn that funeral homes also play a key role in honoring your advance directive. In Georgia, as well as many other states, funeral homes are legally required to honor these directives, including your designated agent for final arrangements. The funeral director will carry out your wishes regarding burial or cremation, ensuring that your plans are respected and that the process is handled smoothly.

This legal protection gives you confidence that your preferences will be followed, even when you’re no longer able to communicate them. This can be an enormous comfort to family members, knowing that everything is in place according to your wishes.

Help Is Here: Your CCM Manager Can Guide You

If you’re a Medicare patient living with two or more chronic conditions, you may qualify for Chronic Care Management (CCM)—a program designed to provide extra support between office visits. At Lake Country Medical Group, our CCM program is about more than just managing medications and appointments. We go above and beyond to make sure your long-term health and wishes are cared for in every way.

As part of this service, your CCM manager is available to help you complete your advance directive and ensure it is securely submitted to our clinic for inclusion in your medical record. This means your healthcare preferences will be easily accessible to your care team when it matters most.

It’s one more way we prioritize your peace of mind and put your care—and your choices—at the center of everything we do. 

Making Your Wishes Clear

It’s important to clearly outline your preferences in your advance directive, especially regarding healthcare decisions and final arrangements. You should designate an agent to make decisions on your behalf, whether it’s about life-saving treatments or funeral plans. The clearer you are, the easier it will be for your agent and loved ones to honor your wishes.

If you’re unsure where to begin, many hospitals, healthcare providers, and organizations such as the National Institute on Aging offer resources and templates to help you create an advance directive tailored to your needs.

Final Thoughts

Planning for the future is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. An advance directive ensures that your healthcare wishes are followed and that your family has a roadmap during an emotional time.

At Lake Country Medical Group, we encourage you to have these important conversations, speak with a local funeral director, and work with our CCM manager to ensure your advance directive is completed and securely included in your medical record.

We’re here to help every step of the way.

www.lakecountrymedicalgroup.com
706-485-4004

The Impact of Stress on Heart Health

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By Nicolas Chronos, MD, FACC, FESC

April is Stress Awareness Month, and stress is something we all experience—it’s a natural part of life. But when stress becomes chronic, it can take a serious toll on your heart. As a cardiologist, I’ve seen firsthand how long-term stress can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and unhealthy habits that put additional strain on the cardiovascular system. The good news is that understanding how stress affects your heart and learning to manage it effectively can make a world of difference for your long-term health.

How Stress Affects the Heart

When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones trigger a “fight or flight” response, increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. While this response is helpful in short bursts, chronic stress keeps your body in a heightened state for too long, leading to long-term cardiovascular strain.

Over time, this can contribute to:

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Persistent stress can cause your blood vessels to constrict and your heart rate to stay elevated, raising your blood pressure over time (American Heart Association).
  • Artery Damage and Heart Disease: Stress-induced inflammation may contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke (Mayo Clinic).
  • Irregular Heart Rhythms (Arrhythmias): Emotional stress can sometimes trigger abnormal heart rhythms, especially in people with pre-existing heart conditions.
  • Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: When we’re overwhelmed, we may turn to habits like overeating, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol—behaviors that significantly increase heart disease risk.

Managing Stress for a Healthier Heart

Managing stress isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about protecting your heart. Here are some of the best ways to keep stress in check:

1. Move Your Body

Regular exercise is one of the most effective stress relievers. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a swim, or a yoga session, physical activity lowers stress hormones, improves mood, and strengthens your heart.

2. Find Moments of Calm

Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking a few minutes to step outside and breathe deeply can help lower stress levels. Even small changes—like putting down your phone and enjoying a quiet moment—can have a big impact.

3. Fuel Your Body with the Right Foods

A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can reduce inflammation and support overall well-being. What you eat can directly impact how you feel.

4. Prioritize Sleep

Poor sleep increases stress levels and raises your risk of heart disease. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help your body and mind recover.

5. Lean on Your Support System

You don’t have to manage stress alone. Spending time with loved ones, joining a community group, or seeking professional counseling can provide emotional support and perspective.

6. Know When to Seek Medical Help

If stress feels overwhelming or you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor—stress-related heart problems are real, and we’re here to help.

Final Thoughts

Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control your health. By taking proactive steps to manage stress, you’re not just improving your well-being—you’re protecting your heart for the long run. If you have concerns about stress and your heart health, I encourage you to reach out.

At Lake Country Medical Group, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Dr. Chronos
Lake Country Medical Group

706-485-4004

www.lakecountrymedicalgroup.com