That can make it harder than need be for loved ones. Advance directives do not go into effect until you are no longer able to make decisions. Living wills set out in advance the treatment choices and instructions to be followed by caregivers if you cannot take part in making health care decisions. For a living will to be legal, when you sign it there must be witnesses and you must be competent. It is wise to prepare a living will at a time when you are healthy, not when you have been very ill or are in the hospital.
Most states have laws that recognize advance directives.
Not all states do, however, and living wills may not always be binding. Some states do not recognize living wills that have been drafted in other states. You need to know the laws in your state. Your agent's duty is to follow your wishes. Once you have signed these documents, keep them in a safe place.