What is a Living Will

What is a living will, or advance decision?

If a situation arose in which you were unable to speak or make your own judgements, an earlier decision would become important.

You are free to decline medical care, even if doing so would result in your death. An prior choice is legally binding, so the people who are taking care of you must abide by it. Yet, it won't be applied unless you become incapable of making or communicating decisions regarding your care.

What should I consider before making an advanced decision?

You should discuss your decision in advance with a medical expert who is familiar with your medical history and the advantages and disadvantages of foregoing particular therapies. To ensure that your loved ones understand your preferences, you might also want to talk about it with them.

A decision to forgo therapy in advance:

• You must be explicit about the conditions in which you do not want to receive the recommended treatment.
• should state if you agree to receive the particular treatment, even if it may result in your demise.
• cannot be used to request specific medical care
• cannot be used to request the termination of your life.

How do I make an advanced decision?

Unless you are rejecting potentially life-saving treatment, an advance decision does not need to be in writing. Therefore, it is advisable to put it in writing and distribute copies to all of your family members and carers. Your advance decision must be disclosed to your doctor and medical staff in order for them to record it in your medical records. You should examine it frequently, and you are always free to make changes. Make sure to explicitly convey and document these modifications, and don't forget to date and sign the document.

Your choice to deny potentially life-sustaining treatment must be made in writing, be signed in the presence of witnesses, and include the phrase "even if life is put in danger as a result."

The regulations governing how a durable power of solicitor for health and care and an advance decision interact can be intricate. It's advisable to acquire legal advice about setting up an advance decision.

What is an advanced statement?

An advance statement of wishes outlines your preferences and everything else that is necessary for you to feel at ease. All parties involved in your care should think about making an advance statement. It is not legally binding, in contrast to a decision made in advance.

You might want to mention details about:

• where ideally you would like to be cared for, for example your home, a care home or hospice
• your dietary requirements
• foods you do and don’t like
• whether you prefer baths or showers
• what kind of clothes you prefer to wear
• the type of music you like and what you like to watch on TV
• whether you like to sleep with a light on
• the time you like to go to bed and whether you’re an early riser or prefer a lie in
• your religious or other beliefs and values
• who you want to be consulted about your care
• who you would like to visit you.

You can write down your advance statement whatsoever suits you best. To ensure that everyone engaged in your care is aware of your wishes, it's crucial to provide a copy of your advance directive with everybody, especially your care staff, Doctor, and medical team.