What is a Living Will?

A Living Will or Advanced Health Care Directive provides your preferences regarding medical care to your health care team in the event that you are unable to do so. They can vary from state to state in the type of documents that need to be filled out. In most states the Advanced Health Care Directive accompishes two things. It states what your choices for care are, and appoints another person of your choice to supervise and make decisions regarding your medical care. Some states may require two separate documents to declare your appointed spokesperson and your wishes.

It not only lets medical providers know your preferences but also family members are clear about your expectations. It can prevent arguments among family who are probably feeling quite stressed anyway since you are incapacitated. This can be reassuring to family to know that they are getting you the type of health care you wish.
Whether it is a temporary state of incapacity or a terminal one your choices regarding how you are treated are specified in this legal tool. It is your voice for what you do or do not want done for as long as you are unable to communicate independently.

Remember that if you do fill one out, make sure that you give a copy of the original to your appointed spokesperson, doctor, attorney, family, and home care agency.