I have been in hospital rooms with family members and friends near death, and it is a sobering time. It is often evident that the end is near. When the critically ill person is a believer, prepared to meet God, it is a joy to know his or her suffering will soon be over. However, helping a person with pain management is much different than helping the person die before God's appointed time. Most people think of the will and trust when considering an estate plan.
Many attorneys advise their clients to include two other documents as well.
The Durable Power of Attorney for Financial and the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care provide additional planning options when a person is incapacitated by serious illness. Many professionals recommend the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care in place of a Living Will. The wording of the Living Will is often too ambiguous in its detail and it may give too broad of power to health care providers. The Living Will presumes non-treatment is your wish. Such decisions may include requesting additional treatment.