What is a living will?
A living will is a legal document in which you can specify your wishes for medical care if you become incapacitated and are unable to make decisions for yourself. This document is commonly used in Texas trusts and estates law. A living will is sometimes referred to as an advance medical directive or a healthcare directive. This document typically lets your physician or healthcare provider know if you want to be kept alive on life support if you are terminally ill; if you want to be resuscitated in the event your heart stops; or if you want to receive certain medications or treatments even if those treatments are not considered life-sustaining. It is important to note that a living will only applies if you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions. It does not apply when you are conscious and able to make decisions on your own. Also, it does not allow you to express decisions about when to die or the withdrawal of medical treatment. When creating a living will in Texas, it is important to keep the following in mind: • Be sure to consult with an attorney or physician before creating your living will. • Your living will must be signed by you and two witnesses who are 18 or older. • Make sure to make a copy of your living will for your medical providers and family members. Creating a living will can be a difficult task, but it can ensure that your wishes for medical care are carried out if you become incapacitated. It can also help relieve stress for your family or health-care providers by providing clarity about your wishes if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.
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