An SCI causes many changes in the body. Feeling and movement can both be affected. And the functions of many body organs may also be affected. These changes make certain problems (called complications) more likely to happen. To help limit these problems, take steps daily to manage your health. This sheet gives a brief summary of what this involves.

You have a loved one who's receiving care at the end of life. You've been helping to make your loved one comfortable. As they move into the final stages, this sheet can help you find ways to help your loved one die with dignity.

A healthcare proxy represents another person when that person can't speak for themself. The name of this role varies by state. It may be called a Durable Medical Power of Attorney or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare.

Delirium is very common in people with advanced illness. With delirium, people have times when they are suddenly confused and unaware of what's going on around them. They may become agitated and restless or withdrawn.

If your loved one has now progressed to end-stage (advanced) dementia, it may help to know what to expect and plan for what lies ahead.

Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is common in people with serious or advanced illness. It makes breathing difficult and uncomfortable. Read on to learn more.

Certain treatments can help sustain life when you have a serious illness. But as your illness progresses, there may come a time when these treatments are no longer a benefit. You must then decide whether to continue or stop these treatments.

When you have a serious illness, your healthcare provider will review treatment choices with you as your illness progresses. Artificial feeding is one such treatment. It supplies artificial nutrition to your body if you can no longer take in food by mouth. This sheet tells you more about artificial feeding as an option.

When you have a serious illness, your healthcare provider will review treatment options with you as your illness progresses. Some of these treatments help support or sustain life if your body can no longer perform certain functions on its own. Artificial hydration is one such treatment.

Resuscitation refers to the methods used to try to restart the heart and lungs if they stop working. If you have a serious illness, your healthcare provider will likely talk to you and your loved ones about resuscitation and other treatments you may need in the future. Read on to learn more about resuscitation and what you need to know when deciding about this treatment.