What is a Living Will?

A Living Will is specifically designed to outline an individual's preferences regarding medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This document is crucial because it allows a person to express their desires concerning life-sustaining measures, resuscitation efforts, and other medical interventions, ensuring that their specific healthcare preferences are followed by medical personnel and loved ones.

This clarity in communication helps to alleviate any potential confusion among family members and healthcare providers about what an individual would want in critical situations. It serves as a tool for maintaining one’s autonomy over healthcare decisions even when one cannot advocate for themselves. It is important to note that a Living Will is a legal document that carries significant weight in medical scenarios, which is why it differs fundamentally from informal notes or financial planning documents.