Advance directive forms are a way to write down your health care wishes before a medical crisis. These legal documents tell your loved ones and doctors what medical treatments you want and don’t want in case you can’t speak for yourself.
A living will is a type of advance directive that outlines your health care wishes for medical care if you become seriously ill or permanently unconscious and cannot make these decisions on your own. Unlike a living will, an advance directive isn’t limited to terminal illness.
Everyone over the age of 18 should have an advance directive. Anyone can face an unexpected illness or injury that may render them unable to make health care decisions or speak for themselves. Without an advance directive, it can be much harder for family and loved ones to know what to do.
It’s best to get an advance directive in place while you’re able to think clearly and before a medical crisis ever happens. We recommend you review and update your advance directive every year.
Consider your basic beliefs about life and medicine. Talk about your concerns, hopes, and fears with your family. Think about what matters most to you and what quality of life means to you. Common responses often include:
Use the Utah Advance Health Care Directive forms to record your wishes. Your provider or social worker can help answer any questions you may have.
As you fill out the forms, you must:
By law, you will need a witness with you when you complete and sign your advance directive. This person will co-sign the form with you.
The witness must be a “disinterested adult” who meets all the following criteria.
Ask your social worker if you need help finding a witness.