What Is an Advance Directive?

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines a patient's preferences for medical care if they become unable to make decisions. It typically includes a living will (which specifies treatment preferences in life-threatening situations) and a healthcare proxy (which designates someone to make medical decisions on the patient’s behalf).

Why are advance directives important?

Advance directives ensure that a person’s medical wishes are honored even if they cannot communicate them. They can help avoid family disputes, reduce stress for loved ones, and guide healthcare providers in difficult situations.

Key considerations

• Advance directives should be updated regularly to reflect changing health or preferences.
• Not all medical providers automatically ask for them, so patients should ensure their doctors have copies.
• Without an advance directive, medical decisions may default to family members or state laws.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can guide you through creating or updating an advance directive, ensuring your healthcare preferences are clear and accessible.

What to do next

Make sure your medical wishes are known. Find an advocate today.