You can also declare whether you'd like to donate your organs, bodily tissues, or your entire body upon death. And you can give instructions on what to do with your remains.
How to write a living will
As you plan to write a living will, you should consult your doctor about your potential future care. They may be able to walk you through exactly what would happen in certain cases. That way, you'll have better information to help make your decisions.
An estate planning attorney will be able to craft a document that meets your state's requirements and is enforceable. Each state provides a form to craft a living will. If you do not follow the form, your living will may not be enforceable. Be sure the living will you create is enforceable in any state where you spend significant amounts of your time.
It's up to you to determine the kinds of care you want and don't want, in what situations you want those treatments, and how long those treatments should last. You can also include any other considerations like religious or philosophical beliefs you wish to be observed.
You can also designate your healthcare proxy and detail what to do with your remains.
Once the document is completed, signed, and witnessed, you should file copies with all important parties-- your doctor, your hospital, your healthcare proxy, and your family.
