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How a living will can help your family

by | Jul 27, 2017 | Estate Planning |

The last thing on anyone’s mind as they go through their day to day activities is their own death. But as we know from the wise words of one of our founding fathers Benjamin Franklin, there are but two certainties in life, death and taxes, and it is important to recognize and address both.

An accident with injuries or an illness can strike any person at any time without any warning. Depending upon the severity of the injuries or illness, victims might find themselves incapacitated or in a coma and unable to speak or communicate with others. For this reason, it is not uncommon for Americans, including those from the Sacramento, California, area, to create a living will.

A living will is not actually a will, rather it is a document which outlines how a person is to be treated in the event they are unable to communicate. It could include instruction on how to be cared for in the event of permanent unconsciousness or a terminal illness. It could also include one’s wishes regarding organ donations.

Having your own healthcare directives explained and outlined can prove to be very valuable to family members as well. It is not uncommon for family members to have differing opinions on how they believe a victim would want to be treated; a living will outlines such wishes allowing all family members to avoid potential disagreements or hostility. It gives everyone a peace of mind knowing that the victim’s wishes will be granted.

As you work on your estate planning to assure that your wishes regarding your assets upon your death, it is important to not forget to work on a living will. Doing so will increase the chances that your wishes will be met with regards to your health and wellness in the event that you suffer an injury or illness that leaves you incapacitated and unable to communicate.

Source: FindLaw, “Living Wills: Introduction,” accessed on July 24, 2017

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