Examples of How to Write a Living Will

Learn how to create a living will with these three practical examples that guide you through the process.
By Taylor

Understanding Living Wills

Creating a living will is an important step in ensuring your healthcare preferences are honored in the event you can’t communicate them yourself. A living will outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment and interventions, which can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Below, we’ll explore three practical examples of how to write a living will to help you get started.

Example 1: Basic Living Will Template

Context

This example serves as a straightforward template for individuals who want to create a simple living will. It’s perfect for anyone new to the concept and looking for a clear starting point.

Here’s a basic layout:

I, [Your Name], born on [Your Birthdate], residing at [Your Address], declare this to be my living will.

In the event that I am unable to make medical decisions for myself due to incapacity, I request the following:

  1. Life-Sustaining Treatments: I do not wish to receive life-sustaining treatments if I am diagnosed with a terminal illness or if I am in a persistent vegetative state.
  2. Pain Management: I desire pain relief, even if it may hasten my death.
  3. Organ Donation: Upon my passing, I wish to donate my organs for transplant if possible.

This living will was made on [Date].

Signature: [Your Signature]
Witness: [Witness Signature]

Notes: Make sure to check your state’s regulations regarding witness requirements and notarization.

Example 2: Detailed Living Will with Specific Treatments

Context

This example is suited for individuals who wish to outline specific medical treatments and procedures in their living will, allowing for more tailored healthcare decisions.

I, [Your Name], born on [Your Birthdate], residing at [Your Address], declare this to be my living will.

If I become unable to communicate my healthcare wishes, I direct my healthcare providers as follows:

  1. Resuscitation: If my heart stops or I stop breathing, I do not wish to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed.
  2. Mechanical Ventilation: I do not want to be placed on a mechanical ventilator if I am diagnosed with a terminal illness.
  3. Nutritional Support: I do not wish to receive artificial nutrition and hydration if I am in a persistent vegetative state.
  4. Palliative Care: I wish to receive palliative care to ensure comfort and dignity at all times.

This living will was signed on [Date].

Signature: [Your Signature]
Witness: [Witness Signature]

Notes: Be sure to communicate your wishes with your family and healthcare proxy, if designated.

Example 3: Living Will with Healthcare Proxy Designation

Context

This example incorporates the designation of a healthcare proxy, which allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

I, [Your Name], born on [Your Birthdate], residing at [Your Address], declare this to be my living will.

If I am unable to make decisions regarding my medical treatment, I designate [Proxy’s Name] as my healthcare proxy.

In this situation, I request the following:

  1. Life-Sustaining Treatments: I do not wish to receive any life-sustaining treatments if I have a terminal condition.
  2. Organ Donation: I consent to the donation of my organs upon my death for transplantation.
  3. Treatment Preferences: I prefer to receive only comfort care and pain management.

This living will was created on [Date].

Signature: [Your Signature]
Witness: [Witness Signature]

Notes: It’s advisable to discuss your living will and healthcare proxy choices with the individual you designate to ensure they understand your wishes.