Do You Have Advanced Directives?
The possibility of becoming physically or even mental incapacitated by either accident, injury or illness is very real and one that should not just be ignored. As a mother, you have children that will need to know what is expected in the event that you should need medical attention but do not have the capability to tell someone what you want. Advanced Directives are not to be confused with having a Will (living or otherwise). Advanced directives are something that is less commonly discuss, but equally important. Advanced directives let everyone know what your wishes are should you become incapacitated but still alive for some reason. You probably have heard about Terry Schiavo. A woman who had an accident that left her in a vegetative state. Her husband said that they had discussed that she did not want to be kept alive by machines, while her parents did not want to “pull the plug” on their child. Because of the lacking of advanced directives and the laws in Florida she was kept alive by machines for several years while court systems tried to sort things out. So learn this lesson – it is not enough to say to your husband that you do not want to be a vegetable – put it in writing.
Where to start
You can find templates on the internet or purchase a form at most office supply stores. You do not necessarily have to use a lawyer, but if you have a known condition that may progress to the state of incapacity, you may want to consult your physician. Most of the online forms are easy to use and will address most every issue the average person has to offer. Another thing to do is get it notarized once completed – this will prevent any court battles over your last rights should there be any discrepancy or interpretation issues. You will also want to schedule a time every few years to update and reevaluate your will. This will be important should your plans change or should you receive some specific diagnosis.
Why it Matters
No one wants to talk about the very real mortality we all face. Accidents happen, diseases are contracted, it just happens, it’s part of life. So thinking about filing advanced directives may bring up all sorts of moral and even religious issues that you don’t really want to think about. But when it comes down to the moment, do you really want to leave your sister and your husband fighting tooth and nail because they believe they both know what’s best. Don’t get me wrong, even when it’s in writing and plain as day, your family may quarrel about it, but it will be your own written words that the doctors will pay attention to. This may also make it easier for your family to make that difficult decision.
Other Notes
These directives are also the place to list organs you would like to have donated if applicable. You can also list whether or not you are will to let a doctor perform a new technique or procedure (this is something that is only done if death is the only other alternative). You will also decide who should be responsible for making decisions regarding your well-being on a daily basis, should become changed but not fatally.
