What is the difference between an advance directive and a living will?
A living will is one kind of advance directive. “Advance directive” is the broad name for legal papers that record health care wishes ahead of time, such as a living will or a health care power of attorney.
A living will says which treatments your parent would want if they were dying or permanently unconscious.
The other common type is the durable power of attorney for health care. With this form, your parent picks a proxy to make medical choices when they cannot speak for themselves. Many families complete both.
Many states offer their own free forms, and a lawyer is not required. Rules vary by state, so use the form for the state where your parent lives. Give copies to the proxy and to your parent’s doctors. Our power of attorney guide covers the money side of planning too.
Sources
This answer is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules can vary by state.
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