What are the differences between living wills and advanced directives?

What are the differences between living wills and advanced directives?

A living will is a specific type of advance directive that outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you're unable to communicate. Advanced directives, on the other hand, is a broader term that includes living wills and other documents that express your healthcare preferences.

Can you give me examples of what might be included in a living will?

Sure! A living will may include your preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as whether you want to receive CPR, mechanical ventilation, or feeding tubes if you're terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state.

What about advanced directives? What else do they cover?

Advanced directives can include a living will, but they also encompass durable power of attorney for healthcare, which allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so.

Is it necessary to have both a living will and an advanced directive?

It's not necessary, but having both can provide comprehensive guidance for your healthcare decisions. A living will specifies your treatment preferences, while an advanced directive can ensure someone you trust makes decisions if you're unable to.