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Living Will

What is a Living Will?

A living will refers to a legal document that defines your healthcare preferences and decisions about medical procedures or treatments should you require them. The document provides you the option of naming an agent or decision-maker to carry out your wishes in case you are unable to do so yourself. The person creating the living will document is referred to as the ‘principal’ and the entity or person authorized to act on your behalf is called the ‘agent’.

Why do you need a Living Will?

A living will serves as a crucial document when you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Below are some reasons why it is important:
  1. Empowering your loved ones – your family members will not need to make difficult decisions during emotional times as you would have made your wishes clear
  2. Avoiding Family Conflicts – disagreements about your treatments among family members can be avoided and you can have peace of mind in knowing that you have made your wishes clear.
  3. Planning of Finances – you will have made decisions based on financial status and requirements and maintain control over medical decisions.
A living will is a legally valid document that provides an individual with peace of mind, knowing that your wishes will be respected and followed in the event of a crisis. It provides legal protection against unwanted medical treatments and interventions that may be contrary to your preferences

When you should write a Living Will

Here are a few pointers about when and why to consider writing a living will:
  1. If you are aging or deteriorating health: individuals can express their preferences regarding medical treatments and procedures. A will ensures that healthcare providers and family members can understand the wishes of the individuals and honour them.
  2. If you require anaesthesia for any treatment: the burden of family members having to make big decisions can be alleviated at a difficult time when you are unable to function normally. They can spend time with you rather than being stressed about what to do next.
  3. If you have been given a terminal diagnosis: in this case, a living will enables you to prioritize quality of life over prolonged medical interventions that may or may not be successful.
Overall, a living will serves as a proactive measure to ensure that individuals maintain autonomy and control over their healthcare decisions, even in challenging circumstances, while also providing clarity and guidance for their loved ones and involved healthcare providers.