How Living Wills Work

Many states have forms for advance directives, allowing residents to state their wishes in as much or as little detail as they’d like. For example, it’s common to direct that palliative care—that is, care to decrease pain and suffering—always be administered, but that certain extraordinary measures,like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) not be used in certain circumstances.

To be valid, a living will must meet state requirements regarding notarization or witnesses. A living will can be revoked at any time. The document can take effect as soon as it’s signed, or only when it’s determined that the person can no longer communicate his or her wishes about treatment. Even if it takes effect immediately, doctors will rely on personal communication, not a document, as long as possible.

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