What is a "living will"?

A living will is a legally recognized document that specifies an individual's preferences for medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their decisions due to a terminal illness or incapacitation. This document allows individuals to express their wishes about life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation efforts, mechanical ventilation, and feeding tubes, essentially guiding healthcare providers and loved ones in making medical decisions that align with the patient's values and desires.

The focus of a living will is to ensure that a person's autonomy is respected, especially in critical situations where they cannot voice their choices. It provides clarity and reduces the emotional burden on family members who might otherwise face the difficult task of making such decisions without guidance.

In contrast, the other options highlight different types of documents that serve specific purposes but do not define a living will. These include advance directives for financial matters, which deal with a person's finances if they become incapacitated, legal documents to appoint a guardian, and guidelines for choosing healthcare providers. Each of these serves a distinct role in legal and healthcare planning but does not pertain specifically to the medical treatment preferences outlined in a living will.