An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your healthcare wishes in case you’re unable to speak for yourself.
An advance directive can include your preferences for medical treatment, comfort measures, and who should make decisions on your behalf. Documenting it ensures your wishes are respected and can reduce stress for loved ones.
Ways to Document Your Advance Directive:
Through a Trusted Partner or Legal Service: Some employers offer access to legal services or trusts that can help you prepare advancedirectives. These services can guide you through the process and ensure your documents meet state requirements. You can also check out our partner Good Trust for simple advance directive needs. Promo code = FF25LEGACY.
With an Attorney: For more complex situations, an estate planning or elder law attorney can help you draft an advance directive tailored to your needs, ensuring it is legally valid and clearly expresses your wishes. You can locate a trusted attorney through the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
Using Recognized Templates:
- AARP Advance Directives: Offers state-specific guidance and templates to create your directive online. Visit AARP Advance Directives
- 5 Wishes: A widely used document that covers medical, personal, emotional, and spiritual preferences. Visit 5 Wishes.
Once completed, ensure copies are shared with you or your loved on’es healthcare proxy, family, and care team. Keep the original in a safe but accessible place (digitally and printed) so it can be used when needed.
Documenting your advanced directive today gives you control over your care and peace of mind for the future.