More than 90% of Irish adults have not set out their wishes and preferences for future healthcare and treatments, according to a new study. 

The Red C/Safeguarding Ireland survey found only 4% have completed a legally recognised plan for their future care and treatment if they are unable to make decisions themselves in future.

Some 6% of adults have nominated a Designated Healthcare Representative to make decisions for them if they can't, and 5% had documented their wishes on where they would like to be cared for. 

Only 11% of people have made an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), where you assign another person to look after your financial or personal affairs if you are unable to. 

The study noted in most European countries, most adults have an EPA. 

90% of people, meanwhile, have not decided their future healthcare and treatment plans, with the majority not knowing they need to decide this. 

Adult abuse

Safeguarding Ireland Chairperson Patricia Rickard-Clarke said planning life decisions on finances, property and healthcare ahead of time is “recognised to be the key action people can take to safeguard against adult abuse”. 

“Planning ahead means that these important decisions are recorded with a legal basis, and in the care of a person we have chosen and trust, for if ever in the future we need help,” she said. 

“Doing so is relevant for all adults including if you're younger and in full health.

"Providing this clarity not only safeguards our future selves – it also reduces potential for confusion, conflict and tension in families and helps healthcare professionals to know what treatment we would want.” 

Adult abuse occurs “when a person’s rights, independence or dignity are not respected”, according to Safeguarding Ireland, and is most common among people made “fragile” due to age or other health conditions. 

Safeguarding Ireland recommended adults find an EPA, nominated a Designated Healthcare Representative you can trust, and to learn more about Decision Support Arrangements to create a plan if you are incapable of making decisions in the future.