The best estate plans include more than just a will. People may draft powers of attorney and can also create trusts. They may also want to add an advanced directive discussing medical matters to their estate plans.
Advance directives give people an opportunity to prepare for scenarios in which they require medical support but either cannot communicate or lack the capacity to make key determinations on their own behalf. There are a variety of matters that people can address in an advance directive as a means of protecting their own wishes and taking pressure off of their loved ones.
Information about anatomical gifts
Few decisions are more difficult for families to make than decisions about anatomical gifts. When an individual has a sudden traumatic incident or medical event, like a stroke, their organs and tissues can potentially save the lives of others or drastically improve their quality of living. Families may struggle to make decisions about anatomical gifts without explicit guidance. People may want to provide clear instructions about their wishes so that family matters know how to proceed.
Choices about outside support
Advance directives can include a designation of a health care representative authorized to act in the event of an individual’s incapacitation. They can even include information about financial support by naming someone to act as their conservator in the event of long-term incapacitation. Doing so helps ensure a smooth transition of authority. Otherwise, family members or other concerned parties may have to go to court to make medical choices and handle an incapacitated person’s finances.
Specifics about medical preferences
Advance directives can include health care instructions, which some people call a living will. People can provide clear information in their advance directives about their various medical wishes. Perhaps they have specific standards for when life support is appropriate. Maybe they have preferences about certain types of treatments or medications, such as narcotic pain relievers. People can provide clear guidance for their health care representatives in an advance directive.
Those facing medical hardship or preparing for retirement are among those who may benefit from establishing an advance directive. Clarifying personal wishes as part of the overall estate planning process can be beneficial for both a person drafting the documents and those close to them.