Accidents can happen at any time. A living will provides specific instructions regarding your health care desires in case you can no longer express your wishes, such as if you are in a car crash and left in a permanent vegetative state. Even if you are in perfect health, it’s worth drafting a living will. It can spare your family from making difficult decisions and ensure you have control over the future.

FAQ About a Living Will

What Does a Living Will Include?

These documents can be extremely specific. Do you want ongoing life support if you are terminally ill or in a permanent vegetative state? What are your wishes regarding tube feeding, pain medication, and artificial hydration? These are the kinds of questions you will answer with this legal document.

Can You Name a Proxy?

A living will can designate a health care proxy or power of attorney, naming another person—like a spouse—to make decisions on your behalf. The details of the living will can help guide their decisions.

What if You Don’t Have a Living Will?

If you don’t have a living will and are unable to communicate your wishes, the health care providers are under legal obligation to perform certain procedures to save your life, whether it’s being put on a ventilator or being resuscitated.

What Are the Advantages of a Living Will?

A living will gives you a voice, even if you are incapacitated and unable to make decisions. It also benefits your loved ones, who can ensure your desires are carried out as requested.

How Can You Create One?

To ensure the document is drafted in accordance with the relevant regulations and, therefore, legally binding, visit an attorney. Afterward, you will want to revisit the document on an annual basis. Your wishes might change over time, and the paperwork needs to be updated accordingly.

If you are considering drafting a living will, trust Dennis P. Faller, Attorney at Law, to help. Located in Wapakoneta, OH, this lawyer serves residents throughout Auglaize County with the trustworthy and knowledgeable guidance they need. Find out more about his practice areas, from family law to estate planning, online, or call (419) 738-4578 to schedule an appointment today.