By Dominique Amit
When it comes to planning for the future, for many the focus is on financial matters, often overlooking a critical aspect of personal decision-making - healthcare. This is where personal directives come into play.
Where a will deals with your property after you pass away, and a power of attorney appoints someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf while you are alive, the personal directive, also sometimes referred to as a personal care directive, allows you to appoint someone as your “delegate” to make healthcare and personal care decisions on your behalf if you ever lose the ability to make those decisions yourself.
A personal directive is a legal document that allows you to clearly outline your wishes regarding personal care and medical treatment. It can include directions relating to medical procedures and end-of-life care. This document is only able to be used by your delegate should you lose capacity.
There are many reasons why having a personal directive is important. Having a personal directive in place allows you to maintain control over your desires regarding medical treatment. By having your wishes documented you can avoid conflict or confusion about what you may have wanted should you be unable to express those wishes yourself. A personal directive also provides clarity to your delegate and to your healthcare providers, so they are informed regarding what care you wish to receive, ensuring your values and preferences are respected.
The personal directive is a vital part of comprehensive estate planning, and having one in place offers peace of mind that your wishes will be carried out in case you are ever incapacitated. If you’re considering putting a personal directive in place or making changes to an existing one, we can help ensure your plans are tailored to your needs and you are empowered in your future personal care decisions.
This article is for information only and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have any questions or would like further information, you should consult a lawyer.
