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Printable Living Will Form

A Living Will is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical treatment in the event that you are unable to communicate your wishes. It provides guidance to your healthcare providers and loved ones about the type of care you want or do not want. Taking the time to fill out this form can ensure your wishes are respected when it matters most; click the button below to get started.

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Document Overview

Fact Name Description
Definition A Living Will is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their preferences.
Purpose The primary purpose of a Living Will is to guide healthcare providers and family members in making medical decisions that align with the individual's values and desires.
State-Specific Forms Each state in the U.S. has its own form and regulations governing Living Wills, ensuring compliance with local laws.
Governing Laws In California, for example, the Living Will is governed by the California Probate Code, while in New York, it falls under the New York Public Health Law.
Execution Requirements Most states require the Living Will to be signed by the individual and witnessed by at least one person, or notarized, to be legally valid.
Revocation A Living Will can be revoked at any time by the individual, provided they are of sound mind. This can be done verbally or in writing.
Healthcare Proxy A Living Will can be used in conjunction with a Healthcare Proxy, which designates someone to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual.
Importance of Updates It is advisable to review and update a Living Will periodically, especially after significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, or a serious health diagnosis.

More Forms

Documents used along the form

A Living Will is an essential document that outlines an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of incapacitation. It is often accompanied by other important forms and documents that help ensure a person's healthcare preferences are respected. Below is a list of commonly used documents that complement a Living Will.

  • Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document designates a specific person to make medical decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so. It provides clarity on who can advocate for the individual's healthcare preferences.
  • Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR order instructs medical personnel not to perform CPR if a person's heart stops or they stop breathing. This document is often used in conjunction with a Living Will to provide clear guidance on end-of-life care.
  • Healthcare Proxy: Similar to a Durable Power of Attorney, a healthcare proxy allows an individual to appoint someone to make medical decisions. This document can be more specific about the types of decisions that the proxy can make.
  • Advance Directive: An advance directive is a broader term that encompasses both Living Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney. It serves as a comprehensive guide for healthcare providers regarding a person's treatment preferences.
  • Organ Donation Form: This form specifies an individual's wishes regarding organ donation after death. It can be included with a Living Will to ensure that healthcare providers are aware of the individual's intentions.
  • Personal Health Record: A personal health record is a compilation of an individual's medical history, medications, allergies, and other health-related information. Keeping this document updated can assist healthcare providers in making informed decisions in line with the individual's wishes.

Utilizing these documents alongside a Living Will can provide a comprehensive approach to healthcare planning. Each form serves a distinct purpose, ensuring that an individual's preferences are respected during critical medical situations.

Document Sample

Living Will Template

This Living Will is created in accordance with the laws of the State of [Your State]. It expresses my wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that I am unable to communicate my preferences.

Personal Information

  • Full Name: ____________________________________
  • Date of Birth: __________________________________
  • Address: ______________________________________
  • City, State, Zip: _______________________________

Designated Healthcare Agent

If I become unable to make my own healthcare decisions, I appoint the following person as my healthcare agent:

  • Name: ________________________________________
  • Phone Number: _________________________________
  • Relationship: _________________________________

Wishes Regarding Medical Treatment

In situations where I am terminally ill, in a persistently vegetative state, or unable to make my own healthcare decisions, I express the following wishes:

  1. I do not want to be kept alive by artificial means if there is no hope of recovery.
  2. I prefer pain relief even if it may hasten my death.
  3. If I am in a coma with no chance of waking, I do not wish for life-sustaining treatment.

Additional Instructions

It is my wish to provide clear guidance to my healthcare providers. If there are specific medical treatments you wish to address, please list them here:

  • ________________________________________________
  • ________________________________________________
  • ________________________________________________

Signature

By signing below, I confirm that I understand this document and that it reflects my wishes:

Signature: ______________________________________

Date: __________________________________________

Witnesses

This document must be witnessed by two individuals who are not related to me and who will not inherit anything from me:

  • Witness 1 Name: ________________________________
  • Witness 1 Signature: ___________________________
  • Witness 2 Name: ________________________________
  • Witness 2 Signature: ___________________________