Health care directives, also known as advance health care directives or living wills, are documents that allow individuals to specify their medical treatment preferences in the event that they become unable to make decisions for themselves. These directives typically include a living will and a durable power of attorney for health care.
A living will is a written document that specifies an individual's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. It provides clear guidance to family members and health care providers about the individual's desired medical treatment in the event that they are unable to make decisions for themselves.
A durable power of attorney for health care, on the other hand, is a legal document that designates an individual's agent to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so. The designated agent should be someone the individual trusts and who understands their medical treatment preferences.
It is important to have these documents in place as part of an overall estate plan as they provide peace of mind, reduce stress, and prevent confusion and disagreement among family members in the event that an individual becomes incapacitated.
It is important to note that laws regarding health care directives vary by state, so it's essential to consult with a qualified estate planning attorney to ensure that these documents are in accordance with state laws and provide the intended protection.
