It is called a living will because it takes effect while you are still living. Most states have their own living will forms, each somewhat different. You may also wish to speak to an attorney or your physician to be certain you have completed the living will in a way that your wishes will be understood and followed. In many states, a durable power of attorney for health care is a signed, dated, and witnessed paper naming another person, such as a husband, wife, daughter, son, or close friend, as your authorized spokesperson to make medical decisions for you if you should become unable to make them for yourself. You can also include instructions about any treatment you want to avoid.
Some states have specific laws allowing a health care power of attorney, and provide printed forms.
In some states, laws may make it better to have one or the other. The law on honoring an advance directive from one state to another is unclear. However, because an advance directive specifies your wishes regarding medical care, it may be honored wherever you are, if you make it known that you have an advance directive. But if you spend a great deal of time in a state other than your home state, you may wish to consider having your advance directive meet the laws of both states, as much as possible. Advance directives are not required and may be cancelled at any time You do not have to prepare an advance directive if you do not want one.