Medical decisions are highly personal choices, and they are relatively easy to make when your mental faculties are still with you. But with the possibility of illnesses that can rob you of your decision making skills, how do you know that your personal wishes are being considered while family members are calling the shots about your healthcare? Before you are unable to establish these decisions in writing, it is important that you do all you can to protect yourself.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most basic options.
Living wills
The first step in the process is to make sure you have a living will in place. This document describes all of the things that are most important for you in terms of care when you are unable to make those decisions for yourself. The most basic information includes whether or not you want to be resuscitated or kept on life support. But it can go beyond that as well, up to and including what kind of funeral arrangements you would like.
Medical power of attorney
Going hand in hand with the living will is your medical power of attorney. For most people, your spouse will automatically be the individual with whom medical facilities and professionals consult in the event that you cannot make your own decisions. But there may come a time when this is no longer possible. You should always select someone you trust.
Advanced directives
In some states, these two things are combined to create a single legal document called an advanced directive. This is why it is important to work with a legal expert to make sure that you are creating and signing the correct information.
Direct conversations
Beyond all of the legal documents that will help cement your wishes for the future, it is essential that you begin having conversations with your loved ones long before you have the need for invasive care. It can be uncomfortable, to be sure, but it is necessary. Talk to your spouse, your children, your siblings, or anyone else who may be involved in your long-term care or future medical interventions.
Consult with a professional
Have you considered the planning for your living wills or medical power of attorney? Click here to contact our office today to schedule your free consultation. We can help you work through this process and provide peace of mind for your future.
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