Advance directives are legal documents that allow individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacitation.
Living Will: This document specifies what types of medical treatment a person does or does not want at the end of life or in situations where they cannot express their wishes, such as in a coma.
Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: This allows a person to designate someone else (a proxy) to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so.
Advance directives can help ensure that a person's healthcare preferences are respected and can relieve family members from making difficult decisions during emotional times.