She signed the DNR form herself. I sent an email to my siblings summarizing the visit, mentioning my mother’s decision to have a DNR on her file. I did not see what was coming next.

The DNR, short for "Do Not Resuscitate," is a critical one-page form for the frail elderly and those on hospice. It is completed with one's physician, physician assistant or nurse.

"I showed it to my son and told him that if I ever did stop breathing I DO want resuscitating. I know I'm 83 but I'm not 83 if you know what I mean." Although DNR forms can be completed without a ...