END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS

End-of-life decisions are an important part of estate planning. Many people put off estate planning because they don’t want to think about the end of their life, but it’s important to consider these decisions in advance to ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of. Here are some end-of-life decisions to consider when planning your estate:

• Advance Healthcare Directive: An advance healthcare directive, sometimes known as a living will, is a legal document that specifies what medical treatments you do or do not want to receive if you are unable to communicate your wishes. This document can help your loved ones make difficult medical decisions on your behalf and ensure that your wishes are respected.
• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A Do Not Resuscitate order is a medical order that instructs healthcare providers not to attempt to resuscitate you if your heart stops or you stop breathing. This decision is based on your personal values and preferences, and it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider and loved ones.
• Organ Donation: Organ donation is a personal decision that can save lives. Consider indicating your willingness to donate organs on your driver’s license or registering as an organ donor. You can also include your wishes in your advance healthcare directive.
• End-of-Life Care: It’s important to consider what kind of care you want at the end of your life, including where you want to receive care and who you want to be involved in your care. You may also want to consider hospice care, which provides comfort and support to individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness.
• Burial and Funeral Arrangements: Finally, consider what kind of burial and funeral arrangements you want. You may want to pre-plan and pre-pay for these arrangements to ease the burden on your loved ones.

End-of-life decisions are an important part of estate planning. By making these decisions in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of. Work with an experienced estate planning attorney to create a comprehensive plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.