People who are trying to create an estate plan can often become so focused on what they want to happen to their assets that they neglect other aspects of their end-of-life planning. You also have to consider decisions about your health care so that you know your wishes will be followed in this regard.
There are two things that you should pay particular attention to when you’re making your end-of-life plans. One of these is to write out your advanced directives, which can be filed with your medical care team. The other is to name a health care agent who can make decisions for you that aren’t covered by the advanced directives. These work together to ensure that your health care team knows what you want and don’t want in terms of medical care.
What qualities should you look for in a health care agent?
You need to choose a health care agent who can make decisions that you’d make for yourself. The person should be able to put their own desires aside and do what you’d want, even if it goes against what they want.
You will need someone who can listen to the facts and make solid decisions. Once decisions are made, the person will need to be able to stand up for you and ensure that your wishes are being adhered to as far as possible.
All adults should have someone who can make medical decisions for them if they become incapacitated. Doing this ensures that your wishes are followed when you can’t speak up for yourself. Working with someone who’s familiar with estate planning laws could also be of great benefit to you.
