What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that outlines an individual's preferences regarding medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This document is essential for ensuring that a person's healthcare choices—such as the desire to receive or refuse certain medical interventions—are respected even when they cannot actively advocate for themselves.

By clearly detailing specific wishes about life-sustaining treatments, pain management, and other healthcare decisions, a living will serves to guide healthcare providers and loved ones in making critical decisions during challenging times. It reflects the individual’s autonomy and values, making it an important aspect of advanced care planning.

The other choices do not align with the definition of a living will. For example, an indication of insurance coverage pertains to financial matters rather than personal healthcare preferences. Similarly, a healthcare provider's license relates to the qualifications of medical professionals, while a patient's medical history documents prior health issues and treatments rather than their wishes regarding future care.