Medical emergencies and unexpected health changes can happen at any time. Advance care planning gives you the opportunity to think about your values and medical preferences—and to share those preferences with your loved ones and care team before a crisis occurs.

This process often involves completing legal documents known as advance directives. These documents help ensure your healthcare wishes are known and honored if you're ever unable to speak for yourself. Whether you're 18 or 80, documenting your wishes today can reduce confusion and ease stress for your loved ones later on.

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care in situations where you are unable to make decisions for yourself. It includes two main types:

  • Living will: A written document that outlines your wishes for end-of-life care and other medical treatments.
  • Power of attorney for healthcare (POA): A document that names a person you trust to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

Having both a living will and a POA is recommended. While a living will guides your care preferences, a POA ensures someone can speak and act for you in real-time situations.

By documenting your values, goals and medical preferences, you give your loved ones and care team the information they need to support you. Advance care planning can:

  • Empower you to make informed decisions about your future care
  • Help your family avoid uncertainty or disagreements
  • Provide peace of mind that your wishes will be respected

Advanced care planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few steps to help you begin:

  • Choose your healthcare decision-maker: Identify someone you trust to speak for you if you can’t make decisions for yourself. This could be a spouse, adult child, close friend or legal guardian. Make sure they understand and are willing to take on the responsibility.
  • Talk about your values and wishes: Reflect on what matters most to you when it comes to your health and quality of life. Consider what kind of medical treatments you would or wouldn’t want in certain situations.
  • Put it in writing: Complete your advance directive forms, such as a Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will. You do not need a lawyer or notary to complete these forms.
  • Share your documents: Give copies to your chosen healthcare agent, your loved ones, and your healthcare providers. Talk with your doctor about your preferences and ensure they are documented in your medical record.

Advance directive forms and resources

There are a number of resources to help you complete your advance directive. The following websites provide helpful information, documents and instructions:

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