A Living Will, also known as an Advance Medical Directive, is a written statement that allows you to express your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment in the event you are diagnosed with a terminal and irreversible condition and are unable to communicate.

     Life-sustaining treatments may include interventions such as artificial nutrition and hydration (e.g., feeding tubes or IV fluids) and mechanical ventilation (e.g. intubation). A Living Will guides your loved ones and healthcare providers by clearly outlining what types of treatment you do or do not want under such circumstances. If you have a Medical Power of Attorney, the Living Will serves as a directive to help them make decisions that reflect your values and preferences.

     Having a Living Will in place allows your loved ones or your Medical Power of Attorney to make informed decisions about end-of-life care more confidently and with less emotional stress. By clearly stating your preferences, it helps ease the burden of decision-making during what is often an emotionally challenging time. 

     When there is no Living Will or a Medical Power of Attorney, families may face confusion, conflict, or disagreement about what should be done. This can lead to tension, hurt feelings, and decisions that may not reflect your true wishes. Creating a comprehensive estate plan can help prevent these issues, promote family harmony, and ensure your healthcare choices are respected.