“An advance directive comes up frequently in conversations about health care decision-making, as people age. Their purpose is to provide written instructions for medical care, in instances where a patient is unable to communicate them herself.”
An advance directive is a legal document that states a person’s preferences for medical treatment and medical decision-making, reports Valley News in an informative article titled “Advance Directives Provide Clear Guidance for Care.”
There are two components that make up an advance directive: a durable power of attorney and a treatment preferences section.
The durable power of attorney for health care allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions if you lack the capacity to make those decisions for yourself.
The treatment preference, which is sometimes referred to as a living will, lets you specify what kind of treatment you would want in a difficult circumstance. Treatment and care preferences usually focus on what you would want at the end of life or if you were in a permanently unconscious state. There are other preferences that can be expressed, including pain control, blood transfusions, mental health care, and spiritual care. Another preference: who should—and should not—be involved in discussions about treatment.
Most people want to express their wishes to avoid aggressive measures being taken to extend their lives when the end result will be suffering and a delay in their passing. Others chose to avoid the financial burdens that may or may not result in any kind of change in their health or the quality of their life.
Some have these documents prepared to make it clear that they want to spend their final months, weeks, or days at home with loved ones with care only to relieve pain or care, so they can be conscious and able to speak with those around them.
Advance directives are a blessing to loved ones since they do not have to make hard choices in a crisis situation. They know what their aging parent or spouse wishes.
It’s important to choose the person you want to be responsible for your care well in advance. Make sure it’s someone you trust, who knows you well and will be able to make hard decisions in a highly emotional time. They’ll also have to be able to communicate with your doctors and family members.
Our estate planning attorneys are able to prepare these documents on your behalf, along with a trust or will, and other estate planning documents. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys to start the process.
Reference: Valley News (Sep. 1, 2018) “Advance Directives Provide Clear Guidance for Care”
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