With today's medical technology, the process of dying can be prolonged by what are often referred to as "artificial means." A Living Will can be used to let your healthcare team and family members know your feelings about using such means. The instructions in a Living Will are only used if you are permanently unconscious or terminally ill and unable to communicate.
A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare is a document in which you name a Healthcare Proxy. A Healthcare Proxy is a person you appoint to make your medical decisions if you are unable to make them for yourself. This person may make decisions that are not clearly stated in your Living Will. The proxy you appoint must be 18 years or older.
Your Advance Directive must be signed in the presence of two adult witnesses. If you have decided to appoint a proxy, fill out the optional proxy directive. Do not sign any-thing unless you fully understand the information. Once you have completed an Advance Directive, you should give copies to your attorney and family members. You can revoke your Advance Directive at any time simply by telling your physicians, nurses, witnesses or family members. Changes can be made by completing a new Advance Directive. All copies of the old directive should immediately be retrieved and destroyed.
If you would like to talk to someone about Advanced Directives, please contact your nurse, Chaplaincy services representative or social worker. Please remember an Advance Directive is a personal matter. However, we encourage you to discuss this with your family and personal physician before making any decisions.
You can download a living will by clicking below:
