Living Will

Last updated: 10-Jun-2009

Find out how living wills (also called advance health directives) work, why you need one, and how to get started setting up a living will. Plus: Get answers to frequently asked questions about living wills--or ask your own question.

What Is an Advance Health Care Directive (or Living Will)?

A living will or advance health care directive lets medical providers know a person's preferences when they're unable to do so independently.
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Advance Health Care Directives and Living Wills: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to set up a living will or health care directive. How to figure out what the person in your care wants and make sure it's reflected in the documents.
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Why do I need a living will?

Whether you need a living will may depend on your trust and experience with the medical establishment.
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How can I persuade my mother to sign a living will?

Many people fear that signing an advance healthcare directive means giving up on living. It may take an objective source to convince them of the truth.
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Do living wills have to be updated?

It's wise to review advance directive forms "once a year or so" to make sure they reflect current wishes and current laws.
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How can I obtain the forms required for a free living will or advance directive?

Advance directive forms are fairly easy to come by; it's completing them that can be the tricky part.
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Are living trusts and living wills the same?

When it comes to living wills and living trusts, only the names are similar. One concerns itself with controlling medical care; the other, passing title to property.
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Which takes precedence? A living will or power of attorney?

Which takes precedence? A living will or power of attorney? Learn more at www.caring.com
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