Under New York laws, a living will allow a patient to determine whether they want to be resuscitated and placed on life support. The document also entitles them to identify the circumstances in which life support should stop. It is through these legally-binding documents that family members have the right to ensure that the individual’s last wishes are carried out.
Understanding a Living Will
Essentially, a medical directive informs your medical professional and family of your wishes for future care concepts. The primary focus of this directive is to explain what you want them to do under specific circumstances related to life prolonging strategies. For example, the directive could indicate that you don’t want to be placed on a respirator. It could also indicate when you want these efforts to stop if the use of a respirator is acceptable to you.
It is vital for you to discuss these decisions with your family. While you may not feel you need their approval, you should make this aware of the provisions you include. This could affect their ability to take action when life-saving strategies are needed.
Issuing a Power of Attorney
A Living Will Lawyer can help you to set up a power of attorney. This authority allows the designated party to make decisions about your health care in the event that you are incapacitated. However, you can impose stipulations within this authority. For example, you can prevent them from using life prolonging treatments in the event that you become brain dead.
You can also use the living will to direct the designated authority. For example, it could include the name of the doctor you wish to use. It could also determine whether or not you want to remain within your home or become admitted into a nursing home.
A living will allows patients to make provisions about their future care. The main objective is to determine if they want their doctor to utilizing respirators or other life-prolonging opportunities if they become incapacitated. By discussing these options with your attorney, you can determine what options are right for you. To speak to a Living Will Lawyer today, contact Mark Aberasturi now.
