You have likely heard the term estate planning, but may have put off creating a plan for yourself. Many people avoid the topic because it can seem overwhelming or uncomfortable to think about the future.
However, an advance directive is an easy first step to take. This critical legal document clarifies your medical care wishes if you cannot communicate those preferences to others.
What does a California advance directive include?
An advance directive is a written legal document that outlines your health care choices. It is essential to know that this legal instrument is more than a living will. The following are key parts of an advance directive in California:
- You can name a trusted person as your health care agent. This person can make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
- You can provide instructions about the types of medical treatments you want to receive or refuse, which may include life-sustaining treatments such as ventilators and feeding tubes.
- You can specify your preferences for end-of-life care, including pain management or hospice care.
- You can outline your wishes for organ donation and other body parts or tissues.
- You can designate a primary physician, which ensures a consistent approach to your care.
You can also include a Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, or POLST, which is a medical order by a physician after consultation with the patient and is more typically used for those who are seriously ill.
Benefits for your family
If you cannot speak for yourself, having an advance directive in place is a tremendous gift to your loved ones. Without one, family members may face the difficult task of guessing what you would want, often leading to stress, guilt and family conflict. By creating an advance directive, you remove that heavy burden from them. They can be confident they are honoring your wishes during an already difficult time.
Benefits for you
An advance directive protects your wishes. It ensures your values, beliefs and preferences are respected. You remain in control of your medical treatment even when you cannot speak. An advance directive is an essential part of a complete estate plan. This document gives you peace of mind knowing that others must follow your health care decisions. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you create a detailed document that meets all legal requirements and clearly expresses your wishes.
