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Most people are familiar with a last will and testament that outlines your wishes for the division of your assets after your death. However, fewer are knowledgeable about what a living will is. A living will is arguably just as important or more important than a last will as it outlines your wishes for end-of-life medical care and decisions. This document may need to be referred to if you are ever unconscious or unable to decide about medical treatment for yourself. It is very important that you are able to let your loved ones know what your wishes are in the case of a traumatic accident and/or end of life decisions.

What Is Covered in a Living Will?

A living will outlines your wishes about your medical care when you are incapacitated and unable to make your own decisions. It can include your decision on whether or not you want to be placed on life support, have a feeding tube or have resuscitation measures taken if you ever stop breathing. While it is unpleasant to think about having to make these decisions for yourself in the future, it can help your family feel much more at peace about the decisions that they must make in deciding what should be done in regards to your healthcare. If you are clear about your directions, your caretakers can feel more confident when making decisions about your life.

Who Needs a Living Will?

A living will is not just for the elderly or those with a terminal diagnosis. Anyone can have a living will; you can never predict when a traumatic accident might occur and your family might be left with heavy decisions to make. A living will is important if you do not have close family members, too, so that your appointed caretakers will be aware of your end-of-life decisions. For those with a terminal diagnosis, it can give a sense of peace that you will be taken care of in the manner you desire when the end of life does approach.

Who Do I See To Write a Living Will?

A wills and trusts lawyer in Gilbert, AZ can help you determine what should be included in your personal will. If you do not already have a last will and testament, you should also write that while you make your living will.

A living will should not be overlooked when writing a traditional will; it is an essential part of end-of-life care for every person.

Thanks to Citadel Law Firm for their insight into estate planning and living wills.