Comprehensive estate planning includes an advanced directive. This document only goes into effect if the signatory is too ill or infirm to make healthcare decisions for themselves. Learn more about what this document entails as well as who can most benefit from having an advanced directive as part of their estate planning in the breakdown below.

What It Contains

An advanced directive includes two parts: a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. The living will is where a person stipulates the kind of medical treatment they do and do not wish to receive. The durable power of attorney for healthcare is a document in which you designate someone to see that your wishes regarding healthcare are honored. That person can also make medical-related decisions on your behalf.

The advanced directive can include a number of different preferences when it comes to treatment. Among the most common are the signatory's wishes for CPR and other means of resuscitation if their heart stops; for tube feeding or IV liquids if they are unable to eat or drink; and for what type of palliative care, like pain medication, the signatory wants to receive.

Who Can Benefit

People of all ages should include an advanced directive in their estate planning. Consider it an additional insurance policy and a way for your wishes to be honored even when unable to speak for yourself.

Seniors in particular should prioritize writing an advanced directive. As one ages, health issues become more and more a part of everyday life. Making the difficult healthcare-related decisions now will make them easier on your loved ones later and ensure you receive only the treatment stipulated in the directive.

Let the Law Offices of Neil T. Nakamura & Associates help you design the advance directive, wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents that best meet your needs. For over 43 years, they have represented residents of Honolulu, HI, in all aspects of estate and probate law. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling (808) 945-7645 or visiting them online.