Advance Directives

Advance Directives

We spend a lot of time talking about the importance of living responsibly, which involves preparing for the realities of life. While we believe making the decisions involved in funeral pre-planning is one reflection of a responsible mindset, we also know the critical importance of completing an advance directive.

What is Advanced Care Planning, A Living Will or an Advance Directive?

Advanced care planning is making decisions about the healthcare you would want to receive should you become unable to make decisions for yourself later in life.  An advanced directive is defined as "a written statement of a person's wishes regarding medical treatment."  A living will is a type of advanced directive. Advance directives, when properly signed and witnessed, provide guidance for medical and healthcare decisions in the event the individual becomes incompetent and can no longer make such decisions. 

WHAT IS A MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY, HEALTHCARE PROXY or AGENT?

A medical power of attorney or a healthcare proxy or agent is someone you designate to make medical decisions regarding your medical care should you become unable to make decisions for yourself.  Assigning a proxy or agent allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf regarding your health should you be unable to.

Other Things to Know About Advance Directives

  • Advance directives are legal throughout the United States.
  • Governing laws vary so be sure to obtain an advance directive that complies with your state's laws.
  • You do not need an attorney to complete an advance directive.
  • If you reside in more than one state, you should complete an advance directive for each state where you spend a significant amount of time.
  • There are no time limitations on advance directives. A signed advance directive remains in force until a new one is completed.
  • Periodically review your advance directive to make sure it still reflects your desires. If it doesn't, don't try to amend it; simply complete a new one.
  • Paramedics and emergency medical technicians cannot recognize or honor a living will or medical power of attorney. They are obligated to do their best to stabilize the patient and get them to the hospital. When you are in the care of hospital personnel, your advance directive becomes valid.

What's Involved in Preparing an Advance Directive?

Preparing an advanced directive requires thoughtful introspection and conversation with family members. The American Bar Association describes the process this way: "Good advance planning for health care decisions is, in reality, a continuing conversation about values, priorities, the meaning of one's life, and quality of life."

Where to Obtain an Advance Directive Form

You can obtain an advance care directive form from your state or local hospital.  Federal law requires every hospital to not only provide information about advance directives but they are also required to share valuable information about the related laws in your state. 
Learn More About Advance Directives Download An Advanced Directive Form
You will need to have the advance directive witnessed and notarized. If you do not have access to a notary the staff at the Davis Funeral Home can help.  We have several staff members that are notaries.   You can find one using either of the following websites:
Once your advance directive is completed, signed, witnessed, and notarized, you may wish to upload a copy to your state's advance directive registry. This service allows healthcare providers quick access to your advance directive should they need it. Locate the advance directive registry for your state online or visit the website for the U.S. Living Will Registry.

Share by: