In estate planning, most people think about the fate of their assets. You may have a will or a trust that protects your property. Still, there is a way to care for yourself and your interests while alive. A living will can voice your wishes if you ever face a challenging medical situation.
Thinking about illnesses, accidents, or end-of-life decisions is complex. However, medical technology allows us access to life-extending procedures that might carry some implications. You or your loved ones may have strong opinions about medical care for life-threatening illnesses. That is why living wills exist. They are a tool that can give you peace of mind by voicing your wishes in challenging times.
Creating your living will
Adding a living will to an estate plan can help you prepare for any potential medical issue. In case of a life-threatening and incapacitating condition, such as terminal illness, persistent vegetative state, or end-stage conditions, you can protect your wishes through a living will to determine the medical procedures you would partake in if there is no expectation of recovery.
Healthcare professionals will refer to your living will if necessary. The directives outlined in the document can serve as a guide through the life-extending procedures you are comfortable with, providing peace of mind to your family by clearly communicating your preferences.
As mentioned earlier, it is challenging to think about future illnesses. Still, your loved ones may have different opinions about medical care. Without a living will, they might be unable to honor your wishes in times of incapacitating illness.
A living will can guide your loved ones in making difficult decisions and help prevent conflicts. It can also complement a comprehensive estate plan. If the time comes, your family can focus on being there for each other rather than debating different points of view.
In Florida, you can write your living will. An attorney can guide you through the process and ensure the document meets all the state’s requirements. They can also help you designate a healthcare surrogate to protect your interests when needed. Making a living will can be an emotional challenge, but it can benefit you and your family in the long run.
