What is a Living Will/Medical Power of Attorney?
A living will is an individual’s written declaration of what life-sustaining medical treatments he or she will allow or not allow in the event they become incapacitated. For example, the person may request that artificial nourishment be withheld if he or she is terminally ill or the individual may include a do not resuscitate clause. The Medical Power of Attorney authorizes a person to make medical decisions on your behalf, ideally to carry out what you have specified in your Living Will. You may want to talk to the person before appointing them to be sure they understand and are comfortable with your wishes. That person needs to be strong enough to carry out your wishes even though some family members may object.
