What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that allows individuals to specify their wishes regarding healthcare in the event that they become incapacitated. Like a traditional will, it is binding, meaning that a person’s wishes must be followed even if other family members disagree. It is commonly used in Elder Law in Delaware to protect an elderly person’s right to make their own decisions about their health, and to ensure that their wishes are respected. Living wills are an important part of estate planning and allow individuals to make decisions about their health even when they cannot do so themselves. For instance, a living will can state that a person does not wish to remain on a ventilator or be kept alive in any way if they become seriously ill. It can also specify under what circumstances a person wishes to receive life-sustaining treatment. In Delaware, it is also possible for individuals to name someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. Living wills can be filled out on paper or through online services. It is important to understand the legal implications of a living will, and to have it reviewed by an attorney. This is especially true in Delaware, where there are specific requirements for living wills to be valid.

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