Estate planning is a crucial element of senior life. It offers clarity and peace of mind and ensures that your wishes concerning your assets and healthcare are honored. In this realm of planning, one term you may encounter is a 'living will.' But what exactly is a living will? How does it work, and how is it different from other estate planning documents?
Definition of a Living Will
A living will, also known as an advance directive, is a legal document that outlines your wishes for medical treatment in case you become unable to communicate or make decisions. It provides a directive to healthcare professionals regarding end-of-life care and is enacted when a person is terminally ill, in a coma, or in a persistent vegetative state.
What a Living Will Includes
In a living will, you can specify your preferences for resuscitation, ventilation, artificial nutrition and hydration, and pain management. For instance, if you suffer from a severe stroke leading to a vegetative state, your living will could dictate whether you wish to be kept on life support or prefer to allow a natural death.
What a Living Will Doesn't Include
While a living will is essential, it doesn't cover all aspects of healthcare. It does not include preferences for non-life-threatening medical situations or everyday care issues like diet or exercise. It also does not provide nominations for individuals to make healthcare decisions on your behalf; a different document, known as a healthcare power of attorney or healthcare proxy, is used for that purpose.
Other Important Medical Documents for Seniors
Besides a living will, seniors should consider preparing a healthcare proxy and a HIPAA authorization. A healthcare proxy appoints a trusted person to make medical decisions for you if you cannot do so. A HIPAA authorization allows your healthcare providers to disclose your medical information to the individuals you specify, ensuring that your health matters can be discussed and handled by those you trust even when you can't communicate your wishes.
Tips for Creating a Living Will
Creating a living will may seem daunting, but it is a necessary step in estate planning. It is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure your living will is both comprehensive and legally sound. Take time to thoroughly consider your medical treatment preferences. Open conversations with your loved ones about your decisions can form a crucial part of the process. This keeps them informed and prepares them to respect and uphold your wishes should the time come.
Senior Helpers Triangle Assists Seniors With Daily Activities
Understanding and creating a living will is essential to ensuring your wishes are respected in your later years. Although it does not cover all aspects of future health care, it provides a solid foundation upon which your other medical documents can build. At Senior Helpers Triangle, we're committed to supporting seniors through all stages of life, including estate planning. If you're a senior living in Raleigh, Cary, or Apex and need help with transportation to prepare a living will, we're here to help. Contact us today.