Less than 25 percent of Americans have expressed their thoughts in writing about how they wish to be cared for at the end of life. Most people avoid the subject. We want to encourage discussion so individuals can make reasoned choices in advance, easing the stress on them and their families.

An Advance Directive is a document in which you give instructions about your health care, what you want done or not done, if you can't speak for yourself. Advance directives are not complicated. They can be short, simple statements expressing your values and choices.

For a free copy of a living will, click here.

Health Care Directive

A Health Care Directive is a type of Advance Directive that tells your doctor and your family members what kind of care you would like to have if you become unable to make medical decisions. It's called an "advance directive" because you choose your medical care before you become seriously ill.

For those looking for a free copy of a living will, click here to view or download a Health Care Directive

Health Care (Medical) Power of Attorney

A Health Care (Medical) Power of Attorney lets you name someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unconscious or unable to make medical decisions for yourself for any reason. A Health Care (Medical) Power of Attorney can be part of another advance directive form, such as a Health Care Directive or Living Will, or may be a separate document.

Click here to view or download a Health Care (Medical) Power of Attorney and a free copy of a living will.

How does an Advance Directive work?

If you have completed any form of Advance Directive, you still remain in control of you health care decisions as long as you are able to communicate your wishes. An Advance Directive, including a Health Care (Medical) Power of Attorney, has no legal effect unless and until you lack the capacity to make a health care decisions or to give consent for care.

If you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself, an Advance Directive can often relieve your family's stress. Complete a free copy of a living will today. By expressing your wishes in advance, you help family or friends who might otherwise struggle to decide on their own what you would want done. Click here now to access a free copy of a living will.