How Do I Know If I Need an Advanced Directive in My Estate Plan?

What happens if you become sick, injured, or otherwise unable to speak up for yourself and the medical care you’d like to receive? If you find yourself dealing with these issues, it can also put your loved ones in a very difficult situation trying to navigate what they believe to be your wishes or care options.

You may need to document if you have certain concerns or desires surrounding medical care. This may be outlined in an advanced directive. New Hampshire recognizes an advanced directive as a legal document that has two components: a durable power of attorney for health care and a living will.

An advanced directive may be an important component for your overall estate plan. This must be completed before you become incapacitated. This can seem counterintuitive, since you won’t need an advanced directive when you’re able to speak for yourself, but the risk is that something happens to you in which you are unable to voice your opinions for yourself.

An advanced directive is a legal document that you use to record your medical preferences for life saving care in advance. This is only used when lifesaving care or emergency treatments are given but it does become part of your medical directive. Older people who are at higher risk of medical emergencies should get an advanced directive as soon as possible. Those with specific conditions, such as hypertension, dementia, cancer, heart disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should all consider creating an advanced directive. Communicate with your lawyer about the opportunity to develop an advanced directive.

An elder law attorney or estate planning attorney in NH can assist you with this process and help you document and consider the important issues related to life saving medical care.