When it comes to planning for the future, many people think of Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). But another vital part of future planning that often gets overlooked is an Advanced Medical Directive – sometimes known as a Living Will.
This important document allows you to outline your wishes about medical treatment and care in the event that you are unable to communicate or make decisions for yourself in the future.
What is an Advanced Medical Directive?
An Advanced Medical Directive is a legal document that records your preferences for medical treatment, should you lose the ability to make or express those decisions yourself. It allows you to make choices in advance about things like life-sustaining treatment, resuscitation, or certain medical interventions.
It is designed to guide doctors, carers, and family members, ensuring that your wishes are respected even when you cannot speak for yourself.
Why you might want one
Many people assume that their loved ones will automatically be able to make medical decisions for them if they cannot. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Without a valid directive or a Health and Welfare LPA, your family may have little say over what happens, and decisions could be left entirely in the hands of medical professionals.
Having an Advanced Medical Directive in place gives you peace of mind that your wishes are clear and legally recognised. It also helps relieve your loved ones from the emotional burden of making difficult decisions during a stressful time.
What can it include?
Your directive can be as detailed or as simple as you wish. It might include:
- Whether you want to receive life-sustaining treatment (for example, ventilation or artificial feeding)
- Your views on resuscitation if your heart or breathing stops
- Pain management preferences
- Refusal of specific treatments under certain circumstances
- Religious or ethical beliefs that should be considered in your care
It is important that the directive is written clearly and witnessed properly to ensure it is valid and can be relied upon by medical professionals.
How does it differ from a Health and Welfare LPA?
An Advanced Medical Directive and a Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) are related but distinct.
- An Advanced Medical Directive allows you to record your own decisions in advance.
- A Health and Welfare LPA allows you to appoint someone else (your attorney) to make decisions on your behalf when you cannot.
Some people choose to have both, ensuring that their written wishes are clear while also giving someone they trust the authority to make decisions that might fall outside the directive.
Reviewing and updating your directive
Your wishes may change over time, so it is important to review your directive regularly. Significant life events – such as a change in health, relationship, or beliefs – are good moments to revisit it.
Make sure your GP, family members, and any appointed attorneys are aware of the document and know where to find it.
Taking control of your future care
An Advanced Medical Directive is about more than medical treatment – it’s about having a voice in your future, even if you cannot speak at the time. It provides clarity, reassurance, and dignity for both you and those who care about you.
If you would like to discuss creating an Advanced Medical Directive or setting up a Health and Welfare LPA, SLS Wills and More can help guide you through the process with empathy and professionalism.
Contact details:
SLS Wills and More
Office 4, Garrity House, Miners Way, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3BF
Phone: 01304 577998
Email: hello@slswillsandmore.co.uk
