Living Will

[dorothy-thompson]

Can anyone tell mne if it is more advantageous to have a Living Will rather than a Lasting Power of Attorney for Welfare and Medical decisions?

dorothy-thompson

[maeve]

Hi Dorothy,

In answer to your question which is best living will or power of attorney. They are two separate issues. Power of Attorney health/ financial matters is good because it allows a person nominated by the PSP suffer to act on their behalf PROVIDING you have agreed beforehand on their wishes. A living will has been given another name now it is called A advanced Decision Directive. On this document the suffer decides what course of treatment she/he will allow when they cannot communicate their wishes. i.e allow resussitation , artificial feeding, drugs etc. This document needs to be drawn up (we had it done by the hospice) and over rules Power of Attorney Health/Welfare because it is what the patient wishes. Hope this helps. In my sister's cases we have all three it makes my life easier having to deal with her affairs.

Maeve

PS. You need to give copies to all medical services if you get the Advance Decision Directive so that they are aware i.e. on hospital admissions.

[Lorri-2]

Hi Dorothy

I was lucky to have done a Power Of Attorney years ago when we wrote our Will as this is now expensive but it only covers finances. I have just discussed and completed a DNR/CPR form with Tony's GP as he discussed this with her when he could talk. If you can do these now it may save you some stress in the future.

Lorri