When we are young, we sometimes feel indestructible. We are ready to take on the world, welcoming all the challenges coming our way. We hear about estate plans and living wills, but we do not need them. Those things are for older folks, right? But even in the back of our minds, we know we are not infallible. An accident or unexpected illness could strike at any moment, turning our world upside down.
Though we are still young, we know what we want. And we want to be sure that medical professionals follow our wishes if something should happen. Advance directive instructions are a critical component of any estate plan. Even if you do not yet have assets or property, an estate plan provides essential instructions. The caring team at Metz, Bailey & McLoughlin, LLP helps clients of all ages create individual advance directive instructions.
Advance directives contain three key components. You can be as broad or as specific as you choose in your plans, as long as they cover the basics.
- In the durable power of attorney, you name someone to make judgments on your behalf. This includes nonmedical decisions.
- A living will outlines your choices about life-prolonging care, such as CPR or artificial breathing or feeding machines. It also covers end-of-life instructions for emergency responders.
- With the health care power of attorney, you state who can make medical decisions for you, including end-of-life decisions.
These three documents are vital to avoiding confusion in a time of crisis. All people, young and old, benefit from making their wishes known. Head over to our webpage for more information about creating an advance directive.
