Advance Directives by Marci

As we all know illness or accidents can strike any of us at any time so it is best to be prepared. Advance directives are important for everyone to have regardless of how old you are. They are written documents stating your wishes regarding medical care or finances if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. It is important to keep in mind that these are directives that are done in advance, they cannot be completed once you are already incapacitated. An attorney is not required to complete all advance directives. Each state may vary in the requirements and document types.

Power of Attorney for Health Care-This document lets you designate another person to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to make or communicate decisions for yourself. The Power of Attorney for Health Care may not be the person’s physician or health care provider. An attorney is not required to complete this document. It can be downloaded online.

DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)-This is a document stating your wishes about whether or not you want to be resuscitated when your heart stops beating and/or if you stop breathing. Many states have specific instructions/details in addition to the DNR choice. This must be signed by your physician in order to be valid.

Power of Attorney for Finance-This lets you designate another person to make financial decisions for you if your become unable to make decisions for yourself. It is best to have an attorney draft this document.

Living Will Declaration-This allows you to specify in advance about your decisions for withholding or withdrawing death-delaying procedures in the event of a terminal illness. You may personalize this as you wish including personal instructions.

Guardianship-Seniors who are not able to communicate or make responsible decisions may get assistance through a court appointed guardian who may be a family member, close friend, or Public Guardian.

Wills-A written document that lists a person’s wishes of how they want their property, funds, and personal items distributed upon their death. This also names an executor, the person who manages and distributes an estate after a death.