What is a living will and how is it different from a healthcare power of attorney?

A living will (advance directive) is a document stating your wishes for end-of-life medical care if you become unable to communicate. A healthcare power of attorney designates someone to make medical decisions for you. They work together: the living will guides the agent named in your power of attorney about your wishes.

What decisions does a living will cover?

Living wills typically address: life-sustaining treatments (CPR, mechanical ventilation), artificial nutrition and hydration (feeding tubes, IV fluids), dialysis, blood transfusions, organ donation preferences, and comfort care priorities. You can specify different wishes for terminal illness vs. permanent unconsciousness.

When does a living will go into effect?

A living will only becomes effective when two conditions are met: you lack capacity to make medical decisions (determined by a physician), AND you have a qualifying condition (typically terminal illness, permanent unconsciousness, or end-stage condition). It does not affect medical decisions while you can still communicate your wishes.

Can a living will be changed or revoked?

Yes. You can revoke or change your living will at any time while you have decision-making capacity. Changes should be documented in writing, signed, and witnessed. Notify your healthcare providers and healthcare agent of any changes. Destroy old copies to prevent confusion.

Does a living will need to be notarized?

Requirements vary by state. Most states require two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries of your estate. Some states require notarization. Some accept either. Check your state's specific requirements. Regardless of requirements, having the document notarized adds credibility and may help prevent challenges.

Living Will Template (Advance Directive)

LIVING WILL / ADVANCE DIRECTIVE I, [Patient Name], being of sound mind, make this statement as a directive to be followed if I become permanently unable to participate in decisions regarding my medical care. 1. Life-Sustaining Treatment:

If I am in a terminal condition or permanent unconscious state:
[ ] I WANT life-sustaining treatment (CPR, ventilator) to prolong my life.
[ ] I DO NOT WANT life-sustaining treatment. I wish to be allowed to die naturally.

2. Artificial Nutrition and Hydration:

[ ] I WANT artificial nutrition and hydration.
[ ] I DO NOT WANT artificial nutrition and hydration.

3. Pain Relief:

I direct that I be given medication to make me comfortable and relieve pain, even if it may shorten my life.

4. Additional Instructions:

[Enter specific wishes here, e.g., religious preferences, organ donation]

5. Surrogate Decision Maker:

If I am unable to make decisions, I designate the following person as my agent:
* Name: [Agent Name]
* Phone: [Agent Phone]

Signature: __________________________ Date: _____________

[Patient Name]

Witness 1: __________________________ Witness 2: __________________________

Administrative — Living Will (Advance Directive)

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