A living will is meant to specify your wishes for medical treatment if you are incapacitated. Since the decisions outlined by these documents can vary from person to person, every individual should consider their specific health circumstances and what kind of specialized care they would want in an emergency situation. The guide below explains this legal document in more depth.

What Are the Benefits of a Living Will?

Having instructions outlined ahead of time will let doctors know what kind of specialized care you want without delay. It can also help prevent and settle any debates that your family may have as to your treatment.

Who Should Have a Living Will?

Any person 18 or older should have a living will. However, those with certain health problems should especially consider it. For example, those who have a history of heart attack or stroke may have a higher chance of suffering a medical emergency, and thus, should be prepared for such incidents.

What Kinds of Decisions Might a Living Will Make?

Living wills can be as simple or as detailed as you wish. The actions you dictate in this document, however, will generally pertain to end-of-life or life-saving treatments.  For example, it may outline whether or not you’d like to remain on life support while in a coma or if you’d want CPR after cardiac arrest. It might also highlight your wish to receive palliative or specialized care to ease your pain in cases of life-threatening emergencies.

Alternatively, you can assign a health care proxy to make choices on your behalf in these circumstances. This person would be known as your Medical Power of Attorney. 

If there’s an emergency, Santiam Hospital is here to help. Located in Stayton, OR, this state-of-the-art facility is equipped with an emergency room and surgery center to provide prompt assistance when patients need it most. From diagnostic imaging to specialized care for recovery, this provider will be with you every step of the way. To learn more about their services, visit this local hospital online or call (503) 769-2175.