- Advance Directive is a document which allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences and decisions in advance, in the event that they are unable to make their own decisions due to a serious illness or injury. The Advance Directive is also known as a living will or healthcare power of attorney.
- There are two main types of Advance Directives: the living will and the healthcare power of attorney. The living will allows individuals to specify their preferences for medical treatment in the event they are unable to make their own decisions. The healthcare power of attorney, also known as a durable power of attorney for
healthcare, allows individuals to appoint someone else to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so. - It is important for individuals to consider creating a Medicare Advance Directive as part of their overall healthcare planning. A Medicare Advance Directive can help ensure that an individual’s
healthcare wishes are followed if they are unable to communicate them. It can also help alleviate the burden on family members or loved ones who may be asked to make decisions on the individual’s behalf. - Individuals can create an Advance Directive at any age, and it is a good idea to review and update the document periodically to ensure that it reflects their current wishes and preferences. It is also important to discuss the Advance Directive with family members, loved ones, and healthcare providers to ensure every-one is aware of the individual’s preferences and decisions.
- Creating an Advance Directive is a personal decision that each individual should make based on their own circumstances and preferences. It is an important part of overall healthcare planning and can help ensure that an individual’s wishes are followed if they are unable to make their own decisions due to a serious illness or injury.