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Simple English definitions for legal terms
living will
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A quick definition of living will:
A living will is a document that tells doctors what medical treatments a person wants or doesn't want if they become very sick and can't make decisions for themselves. It usually includes instructions about whether or not to use machines to keep the person alive if there is no chance of getting better.
A more thorough explanation:
A living will is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes for medical treatment if they become unable to make decisions for themselves. It is a type of advance directive that can help ensure that a person's wishes are respected even if they are unable to communicate them.
For example, a living will might specify that a person does not want to be kept alive by artificial means if they are in a persistent vegetative state with no hope of recovery. It might also specify that a person wants to receive pain medication even if it hastens their death.
Living wills can be important for people who have strong beliefs about end-of-life care or who want to ensure that their loved ones do not have to make difficult decisions on their behalf. By creating a living will, a person can have peace of mind knowing that their wishes will be followed.