Living Will

What is a Living Will?

A Living Will, often referred to as an advance medical directive or healthcare directive, is a legal document that outlines a person’s wishes regarding their medical care if they become unable to communicate their decisions due to illness or incapacity. It provides clear guidance to healthcare professionals and loved ones about your preferred treatment options, helping to avoid potential disputes or confusion. Key features of a Living Will include:

Scenarios That Call for a Living Will

A Living Will becomes necessary when you want to ensure your medical treatment preferences are followed when you're unable to make or communicate your own decisions. This could occur due to severe physical injuries, mental health issues, or terminal illnesses. Here are a few examples:

• Individuals diagnosed with progressive diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's
• People undergoing high-risk surgeries
• Elderly individuals who want to avoid unnecessary and unwanted medical procedures

Ideal Users of a Living Will

While a Living Will is typically associated with seniors, it is a useful document for any adult, regardless of age or health status. It is particularly beneficial for:

• People with definitive healthcare preferences
• Individuals with chronic illnesses
• Those who have strongly held beliefs about end-of-life care

Key Legal Benefits of a Living Will

A Living Will is more than just a statement of your medical preferences, it’s a legally binding document that ensures your healthcare decisions are respected. It provides:

• Legal protection of your healthcare wishes
• Guidance to medical professionals and family members
• Reduction of potential disputes among family members

Living Will vs Advance Directive

It's important to understand the difference between a Living Will and an Advance Directive as these terms are often used interchangeably. A Living Will is a type of Advance Directive, focused on end-of-life care. There are other types of Advance Directives, such as a durable power of attorney for healthcare, which assigns a specific person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.

How to Create a Living Will

Creating a Living Will involves several steps:

1. Determine which medical treatments you do or don't want
2. Identify a healthcare proxy if desired
3. Use a Living Will template or consult with a legal professional for guidance
4. Sign the document in the presence of required witnesses or a notary public
5. Share copies with your healthcare proxy, family members and healthcare providers

FAQs