Living Wills FAQ

What is a living will?

A living will is separate from your legal will and relates to your living body rather than your physical possessions. A living will instructs your family, physician, or hospital staff what to do if you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious. In it, you state whether you wish for them to provide or withhold life-prolonging procedures, i.e. life support systems. This document may also contain a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order should you experience cardiac arrest.

In some states, you may also designate a health care surrogate to make these decisions if/when you are incapacitated. Such designations should also include permission to access your medical information.

Why is a living will important?

A living will enables your medical care wishes to be fulfilled. It eases the strain on families faced with difficult end-of-life medical care decisions. Disagreements can emerge between family members or between family and medical staff over the type of care that should be provided to you. Such disputes can even turn into legal conflicts.

How do I make my living will effective?

Each state will have different laws pertaining to living wills, but in all cases you will need to sign your living will, usually in the presence of a notary, lawyer, or two witnesses. Copies should then be provided to your personal physician, hospital, health care surrogate, or immediate family members.

Can I change my mind after I've signed a living will?

Yes. You may revoke it at any time so long as you are able to communicate your wishes. If you change your mind and your physician or hospital has your old living will on record, you will need to make sure they are properly informed or provided with an updated copy. To avoid such uncertainties, it's best to consult your physician and/or lawyer before executing a living will.

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