A living will is a crucial legal document that outlines an individual’s preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their wishes. This legal tool is especially pertinent in emergencies or terminal illnesses, ensuring that loved ones and healthcare providers make decisions aligned with the individual’s values and desires. Below are three diverse examples of living will templates that cater to different situations and preferences.
This basic living will template is ideal for individuals seeking a straightforward document that outlines their medical preferences in case of incapacitation. It serves as an accessible starting point for those new to the concept of living wills.
LIVING WILL
I, [Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], residing at [Full Address], declare this to be my Living Will.
In the event that I have a terminal condition and am unable to communicate my wishes, I wish to be treated in accordance with the following:
1. I do not wish to receive life-sustaining treatment if:
- I am in a persistent vegetative state OR
- I have an incurable and irreversible condition that will result in my death within six months.
2. I wish to receive comfort care to alleviate pain and suffering, even if it may hasten my death.
3. I designate [Name of Healthcare Proxy] as my healthcare proxy to make decisions on my behalf if I am unable to do so.
Signed,
[Signature]
[Date]
This template can be adjusted to include specific treatments, such as resuscitation preferences or organ donation wishes. Individuals may also want to consult with a legal professional to ensure local laws are adhered to.
This comprehensive living will template is suitable for individuals with specific medical preferences and conditions. It covers a wide range of scenarios, making it appropriate for those who wish to provide detailed instructions regarding their healthcare.
COMPREHENSIVE LIVING WILL
I, [Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], residing at [Full Address], hereby declare this to be my Comprehensive Living Will.
If I am diagnosed with a terminal illness, or if I am in a state of irreversible coma or persistent vegetative state, I wish to declare my preferences regarding medical treatment as follows:
1. **Life-Sustaining Treatment:**
I do NOT wish to receive life-sustaining treatment, including but not limited to:
- Mechanical ventilation
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Dialysis
2. **Nutrition and Hydration:**
I do not wish to receive artificial nutrition and hydration via feeding tubes if:
- I am unable to communicate (i.e., coma or advanced dementia).
3. **Pain Management:**
I wish to receive medication for pain relief, even if it may hasten my death.
4. **Healthcare Proxy:**
I appoint [Name of Healthcare Proxy], residing at [Proxy's Address], to make healthcare decisions for me in accordance with this Living Will.
5. **Organ Donation:**
I wish to donate my organs upon my death, as permitted by law.
Signed,
[Signature]
[Date]
This template allows individuals to customize their preferences. It is advisable to discuss these wishes with the appointed healthcare proxy to ensure they understand the individual’s desires.
This minimalist living will template is designed for those who prefer a concise document that covers essential points without excessive detail. It is perfect for individuals who want a quick reference for their healthcare wishes.
MINIMALIST LIVING WILL
I, [Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], residing at [Full Address], declare this to be my Living Will.
In the event that I am unable to communicate my wishes regarding medical treatment, I state:
1. **Life-Sustaining Treatment:**
I do NOT wish to receive life-sustaining treatment.
2. **Comfort Care:**
I wish for comfort care to be provided to alleviate pain.
3. **Healthcare Proxy:**
I appoint [Name of Healthcare Proxy] as my representative for decision-making.
Signed,
[Signature]
[Date]
While this template is brief, it is important to ensure clarity and specificity regarding healthcare proxies and treatment preferences. Consulting with a legal professional is recommended to validate the document’s effectiveness in your jurisdiction.
These examples of living will templates demonstrate how individuals can express their healthcare preferences clearly and legally. Tailor these templates to fit personal wishes, and always consider discussing them with family members and legal advisors to ensure they are honored.