Life expectancy is increasing and medical options are numerous. However, where options exist, choices must be made. Imagine this. A terrible accident, but not fatal. From now on, you'll be a so-called "greenhouse plant." Never imagined, never desired. Your spouse thinks they know that. However, your offspring thinks fundamentally differently.
This creates a breeding ground for friction within the family, especially now, when times are so intense. Moreover, you've always been certain you didn't want to continue living in the current situation, but you're no longer able to express this. Trapped in life, you might say. A living will offers a solution. In this notarial deed, you can arrange matters for situations in which you are (temporarily) no longer able to manage your own interests, but are still alive. This immediately highlights the essential difference from a 'regular' will. That document only takes effect after the testator's death. A living will takes effect during the testator's lifetime.
Medical Affairs What can you arrange in a living will? A living will offers (among other things) scope for arranging medical matters. Consider treatment wishes. Whether or not to resuscitate after a certain age? Whether or not to discontinue ventilation after clinical death? You can also arrange the donation of your remains to science or organ donation in this deed. Incidentally, these are also possible without the involvement of a notary. However, by including them in a living will, you eliminate any possible doubt. After all, the notary must ensure that you are fully capable of expressing your wishes at the time you sign the living will. This provides physicians and loved ones with greater assurance that you understood the consequences of your decisions when you gave the instructions. Having your wishes recorded provides stability and clarity for those around you when making these (often difficult) decisions.
Financial matters In addition to these medical decisions, you can include a financial section in your living will. By granting power of attorney to the person you choose, you enable them to manage your financial affairs. This could include paying your bills, filing your taxes, or selling your home. You can even specify who your designated proxy can make gifts and to whom. For example, your annual gifts to your grandchildren. Do these need to continue during your illness?
Finally, it's also possible to include your personal wishes and suggestions in your living will. Who would you like to ask to care for your pets? Where can your loved ones find the login information for websites?
Takeaway In your living will, you designate people you trust and consider capable. They will then represent your interests should you become unable to do so yourself. This way, you maintain control and matters are handled according to your wishes.
