A legally binding document that a person can have from the age of 18. a living will allows wishes to be made regarding prolonging medical treatments in the event of accident or injury. It is the perfect way that a family can be informed, and healthcare professionals can act, in the event of being unable to communicate such things effectively.
Also referred to as an Advance Decision, they are most commonly used to decide which life extending treatments will be or will not be acceptable. However, they can also be used to express wishes as to how and where the final days of one’s life should be spent.
As with regular wills, they give the opportunity for details and demands to be noted. As such, music and hymns to be sung at a funeral can be selected; whilst the actual event itself can be managed to the last detail.
According to a person’s particular situation, it could be worthwhile discussing the creation of the living will with a GP or consultant. This can help focus on the exact medical treatments that may be available and used, and allow confirmation or denial of their use.
Leaving a copy with your doctor is advisable. Recommended by the BMA, this helps ensure that all instructions are followed from the first point of care, and will help to see that no unwanted actions are taken.
It is also necessary to leave copies with any standard wills, and any friends or family members that seem appropriate. Further than this, carrying a card notifying details of the living will, much like a donor card, is a good idea.
It is important that a living will be reviewed whenever circumstances change and periodically in any case. After all, attitudes change and feelings alter. Changes can be made at any time whilst mental capacity still allows, though it is important that all be witnessed and signed, to ensure the documents remain legal.
Free Article Source - CopyandPasteArticles.com