Last things first, just in case... the premier guide to advance directives
Advance directives are instructions for health and end-of-life care in case you are incapacitated in the future. There are many different labels for advance directives across the country. "Advance directives" in Iowa may be a "declaration" in Montana, but whatever the label in your state, they serve two purposes: 1) the appointment of a health care proxy to make health care decisions on behalf of the patient and 2) the patient's instructions for the use of life-sustaining measures and comfort care as the end of life approaches.
Are you among the vast majority of Americans without a plan for end-of-life care?
If recent news and information surrounding "right to die" courtroom battles have done more to confuse than to clarify, you're not alone. Most Americans want to spare their loved ones any unnecessary conflict or heartache when end of life comes, but they just don't know where to begin.
Give your loved ones the greatest gift of all:
Knowing your wishes for end-of-life care and being prepared to carry them out. There's no doubt about it: the final act for each of us is death. Not many can say with certainty when and how their passing will occur, which is why advance directives play such a vital role in making an effective plan for end-of-life care. For those who will rely on another person as advocate and voice, it's best to take care of Last things first, just in case....