Do you know what your loved one wants?

An Advanced Medical Directive, also known as a “Living Will” is an important document everyone should know about, especially as a caregiver. Does your loved one have an Advanced Medical Directive? Do you know what an Advanced Medical Directive should contain? I am going to explain what exactly a Living Will is, the vital things you need to consider, and Oklahoma’s regulations.

A Living Will is defined as a declaration to your physician and medical provider stating your preferences for life-prolonging procedures in the event of a terminal condition, persistent unconsciousness, or end stage condition occurs. End stage condition was most recently added, and it is when medical treatment would not be effective.

One of the most common mistakes people make is to wait until they get diagnosed with a condition or become ill before they get a Living Will. The best time to make one is when you are healthy and of sound mind. If you or your loved one does not have a Living Will then you need to make one as soon as possible. The worst situation to end up in is when there is no Living Will and your friends and family are having difficulty making your medical decisions because they do not know what you wanted.

Before you meet with a lawyer to create your Living Will take some time to do research about the pros and cons of life-prolonging procedures. One of the best resources is to talk to your doctor about it, since they know your medical history. Once you feel confident you know about all the available options, meet with a lawyer and sign your Living Will. Once you have a Living Will make one or two copies of it. The original copy should go to your family doctor. You should keep a copy and if you feel comfortable give the second copy to a trusted friend or family member.

Below are Oklahoma’s Requirements regarding a Living Will
· You must be 18 and of sound mind at the time you create the Living Will
· You must have 2 witnesses that are at least 18
· The Living Will isn’t required to be notarized, but it is recommended
· A healthcare agent is not required to sign the form

If you would like to see an example of an Oklahoma Living Will go to http://oklegal.onenet.net/oklegal-cgi/get_statute?99/Title.63/63-3101.4.html