Creating Your Own Living Will

It is not easy to think about living wills or durable powers of attorney, whilst you live your normal everyday life. The fact remains, however, that terrible things do sometimes happen, and it is really best to be prepared for the worst. Each person should be able to make his or her own decision about when life has gone on long enough and the pain and difficulty of continuing are really too much. If you find yourself unable to communicate properly after an accident for example, then a living will can allow you to do just that; communicate your final wishes.

A living will is an instruction for termination of your life. You would specify the circumstances under which it would apply, so if, for example, you believe that once your heart stops beating, or once your brain stops working, you do not want life support, you have the right to request that in your living will. You can also ask that no nourishment be given to you, and other similar extreme measures. You should understand that the laws can be a bit tricky, and the decision might be taken out of your hands if you are hospitalised.

The best way to ensure that your end of life decisions are respected is to discuss it with all of the people that matter to you. You should discuss the decisions that you are making in your living will with your doctor, as well as, more importantly, your family. It is your family that will be faced with the ordeal of ensuring that your final wishes are carried out, and it is essential that they are prepared. If they are unaware of your request, then the shock of carrying it out on top of the shock of your condition might prevent them from doing what you want.

The advent of the Internet has meant that living wills are something that you can easily do on your own. Although, when making any important legal decision, it is always a good idea to consult a lawyer, the fact is that the states have forms that are designed so that you can fill them out yourself. Then, it is simply a matter of filling it out, discussing it, and having it certified, and you will have the peace of mind which being prepared for an uncertain future always brings.

One word of warning though. You should check whether the laws where you live acknowledge living wills or not. At the time of writing, it is understood that some States do not, so be prepared for that eventuality as well. If necessary, seek legal advice as to the laws where you live first, to save potential problems later on.