A Comprehensive Guide to Living Wills and Healthcare Preferences

What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical treatment when you cannot communicate your decisions. This is especially relevant in situations involving life-sustaining measures and end-of-life care.

Why is a living will important?

The importance of a living will lies in its ability to ensure that your medical care aligns with your wishes. It helps prevent unwanted treatments and alleviates the burden of decision-making from your loved ones. Furthermore, it assists in avoiding the financial strain that may arise from prolonged, potentially unnecessary medical interventions.

Who can make a living will?

Any competent adult who can make informed decisions about their health is eligible to create a living will. This requires an understanding of the implications of various medical treatments and life-support measures.

How does one create a living will in India?

To create a living will in India, you must be of legal age and in sound mental health. The document should detail the specific medical conditions under which you wish to refuse treatment. It needs to be signed in the presence of two witnesses and must be attested by a gazetted officer or notary. Copies should then be provided to a trusted doctor and a close relative or friend.

Can a living will be revoked or changed?

Yes, the individual who created the living will has the right to revoke or amend it at any time, as long as they are mentally competent to do so. This ensures that the document accurately reflects the person's current wishes.

What happens if there is no living will?

In the absence of a living will, medical decisions are typically made by family members or medical providers. This situation may not align with the individual's preferences and can lead to extended medical treatments that the person may not have wished for.

Is a living will the same as a last will and testament?

No, a living will is distinctly different from a last will and testament. A living will addresses healthcare decisions while a person is still alive but incapacitated, whereas a last will and testament pertains to the distribution of a person’s estate after their death.

How does a living will impact palliative care?

A living will can include specific preferences for receiving palliative care, which focuses on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatments. This ensures that end-of-life care respects and honors the person’s wishes.