What if a sudden illness or injury left you unable to speak for yourself? Who would you want to speak for you? What would you want them to know about your values and wishes? Advance care planning is a process that helps any adult at any state of health think about your values and goals  consider health care choices you may have to make in the future  talk about your choices with your doctor and your loved ones  and make or update a written plan for the future (advance directive)