What is a living will and why should it be important to you? Do you want to be in control of what is done to you if you go into the hospital unconscious? Merriam-Webster (1) defines living will as “ : a document in which the signer indicates preferences or directions for the administration and especially the withdrawal or withholding of life-sustaining medical treatment in the event of terminal illness or permanent unconsciousness”. It tells the doctors what you want them to do for you if you must go to a hospital and you are unconscious and unable to communicate (e.g. you were in a bad car wreck or had a bad stroke). It is important not to confuse this with a regular will (whom you leave your property/possessions/minor children to when you die). Lawyers often charge a lot of money for living wills and medical power of attorney, but you can do them yourself free.
The simplest way is to just “google” “living will” on your home computer (or have your children/friends do it for you). Many sites will let you download the blank forms free. It is usually 10-15 pages that are self-explanatory and easy to fill out (20-30 minutes). The papers then need to be witnessed (a notary is not required for the living will but is for the medical power of attorney). If circumstances change, you can change your instructions. After it is witnessed, take it to your local hospital and have them scan it into your medical record. This is better than your primary care doctor because if you are in a motor vehicle accident on a Friday night their office will not be open until Monday morning. The hospital is open 24/7.
Make at least two additional copies. You can also scan it into your "smart phone". Place one in an envelope in the glove compartment of your vehicle and the other in a “zip-lock” bag and place it in your refrigerator freezer. If an ambulance comes to your home and you are unconscious and the only one there, they will check your freezer for your medical history and living will. Discuss your wishes with your family but remember your “living will” overrides their wishes. Sometimes adult children can not make themselves “unplug the machine” even though they know that’s what their parent wanted done. Your living will allows you stay in control of what is or isn’t done to you when you are in the hospital
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