A Living Will is a written instruction that allows a patient to spell out their wishes regarding their future medical treatments, especially when artificial means (machines) are the only way to keep him alive. This document only takes effect if your family member is unable to make decisions for him or herself.

The Living Will is different from the Durable Power of Attorney for Health because the Living Will does not require the naming of a representative (agent). In many states the living will is used when the person is in a coma or what’s called a vegetative state. In other words, the person can no longer see or hear or speak, and does not respond to the outside world at all.