Becoming incapacitated by a medical crisis is a reality we can’t ignore as we grow older. An Advance Healthcare Directive can help ensure your preferences are followed should you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions for yourself. Though titles may vary from state to state, the most common types of directives are a Living Will, a Durable Power Of Attorney for Healthcare or an Advance Healthcare Directive which essentially combines the first two documents.
What You Need To Know About A Living Will
Before a Living Will can be put into effect, a licensed physician must determine if you’re permanently unconscious and unable to make your own decisions then a second doctor must agree. A Living Will is not just about “pulling the plug.” It clearly states your preferences for treatment and care in addition to your life-sustaining decisions including:
- CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR)
- Ventilator use for breathing
- Artificial nutrition (feeding tube)
- Artificial hydration (IV or intravenous fluids)
- End-of-life comfort care
“A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care usually includes a section where you can add additional instructions for your representative or place limitations on their decision-making authority.”
What You Need To Know About Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care
Since the person you choose will have the power to make life and death decisions for your care, it’s important to consider a number of factors. Do they live near you or can they easily travel to be with you in an emergency? In a medical crisis, will they be able to handle any conflicting opinions of your family members or your medical doctors? Most importantly – do you trust them with your life? You can also name successors, or alternate representatives, if your first choice is unable or unwilling to fulfill their role.
A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care usually includes a section where you can add additional instructions for your representative or place limitations on their decision-making authority. You don’t need a lawyer to prepare this document but it will must be signed by you and two qualified witnesses. It’s also a good idea to have it notarized.
Advance Healthcare Directives Make Your Wishes Known
It’s important to provide copies of your Advance Healthcare Directives to your chosen representative, health care providers, plus any hospital or facility where you receive medical treatment. If you’re admitted to a nursing home or rehabilitation facility, provide them with copies to include with your medical chart. Carry copies when you travel, too. Remember – Advance Health Care Directives are not just for the elderly or terminally ill. Life-threatening tragedies can happen at any age.
