A living will is a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment and healthcare decisions in the event that you become incapacitated and unable to communicate your preferences. This document serves as a tool for ensuring your healthcare choices are honored, even if you cannot express them yourself either temporarily or permanently.
One of the main things a living will specifies is the types of medical interventions you do or do not want. Some of these may include resuscitation, artificial nutrition, and pain management. This helps guide healthcare providers and your loved ones during important situations.
While a living will is supposed to address your preferences, it can also be part of a broader advance directive that designates a trusted individual to serve as your healthcare proxy. This person has the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
By clearly outlining your wishes as part of the estate planning process, your living will can alleviate the emotional burden on family members who might otherwise struggle with making difficult decisions during a crisis. This fosters open conversations about end-of-life care, ensuring everyone understands your desires.
If you are ready to put together a living will as part of the estate planning process, we are here to help. Contact our law firm today to learn more about how a living will works and to start putting together one of these documents.