Making decisions about the type of medical treatment you prefer is a deeply personal process. You know yourself and your body well enough to know what kind of care you want to receive in different situations. However, life often throws unexpected challenges. There may come a time when you cannot communicate your choices, leaving loved ones and medical professionals to make the difficult decisions on your behalf. They will want to make choices that respect your wishes and prioritize your well-being, but they will need guidance to do so. This is why it is essential to understand the tools available to express your medical preferences. Two estate planning documents play vital roles in this process: the health care power of attorney and the living will.
What is a health care power of attorney?
A health care power of attorney allows you to appoint a representative who will make medical choices for you in the event of your incapacity. This person will be the one to talk to your medical team, review your medical information and decide on your treatment plans. Essentially, they become your voice when you cannot speak for yourself. The individual you choose for this role must understand your values and be able to handle the emotional weight of making decisions during stressful times.
What is a living will?
Unlike a health care power of attorney, which appoints someone to communicate on your behalf, a living will speaks directly to your medical team about your wishes. It provides clear instructions about the types of end-of-life medical treatments you do or do not want to receive. This document typically comes into play if you are terminally ill, permanently unconscious or in a vegetative state. It covers a range of medical interventions to prolong your life, including life support machines and CPR.
Why both documents matter
As you consider your options for advance care planning, remember that your wishes and preferences are uniquely yours and deserve to be respected. By putting both a health care power of attorney and a living will in place, you make your wishes clear. This gives you and your loved ones peace of mind, knowing that your choices will be honored no matter what happens.
