Convey your medical wishes with a living will

Generally, anyone who is at least 18 years old and of sound mind can create one. "Sound mind" usually means the ability to understand what the document is and what it contains.

Your living will takes effect when it's determined that you're in a severe medical condition defined by your state's law, with no hope of recovery, and unable to communicate your wishes. If you name someone to be in charge of your medical decisions unrelated to life support, the document goes into effect when you can't make decisions for yourself.

Doctors usually determine you've lost your decision-making ability if you can't understand your treatment choices, or communicate your wishes in any way.

A living will spells out whether you want to be resuscitated in certain circumstances, but it's not a DNR. A do-not-resuscitate order is a separate document prepared in consultation with, and signed by, your doctor. You can't create a DNR without a doctor's consent, and we don't provide them.

You should also have a discussion with your doctor, family, and health care agent to make sure they understand your wishes. You may also need to update it if your health or family status changes, or to name a new health care agent.

Attorney Assist (sometimes called Legal Advantage Plus) is our membership-based service that gives you access to a vetted network of attorneys licensed in all 50 states. You can schedule calls with an attorney to get your questions answered on estate planning and other legal matters, and get your documents reviewed.