What if your mother developed dementia? Are you legally entitled to make medical decisions for her? What if your father had a major accident? Do you know his treatment preferences?
An advance directive provides answers. A directive is completed in “advance,” when a person is healthy. It enables them to guide their future medical treatment should they become unable to speak for themselves. (You need one, too! Accidents can happen anytime.)
Advance directives typically have two parts:
- The medical power of attorney names a person to make healthcare decisions. Your family member identifies a person to be their healthcare “agent” or “proxy.” The agent has the responsibility to make medical decisions based on their understanding of your loved one’s wishes. This includes approving or disapproving any treatment.
- The living will provides instructions for healthcare. Your family member chooses what life-sustaining or other treatments they want or don’t want, and under what conditions. This section also covers organ donation.
Advance directives are simple to complete. No attorney is necessary.
- Have your relative complete an advance directive for each state they spend time in.
- When they sign it, have witnesses, as specified.
- Give a copy of the completed directive to your loved one’s primary physician, the person named as healthcare power of attorney, and involved family members. Make sure it is added to your relative’s electronic health records. Put copies in their car, desk, or bedside table, too. Consider digital storage options, including in health apps on smartphones.
- Have your family member review the directive periodically, especially after a new diagnosis or significant life event. The healthcare agent may no longer be available or be the best choice. Changes in health might add a new perspective and affect your loved one’s instructions.