Advance Directives
Learn about advance directives - living wills and healthcare powers of attorney that communicate your medical wishes when you can't speak for yourself.
What happens if I don't have an advance directive and become incapacitated?
Without advance directives, your family may need to go to court to obtain guardianship or conservatorship to make medical decisions on your behalf. This process can take weeks or months, during which time doctors may only provide emergency care or follow standard protocols that might not align with your preferences. Your loved ones could also face difficult decisions without knowing your wishes, potentially leading to family conflicts during an already stressful time.
