What is the purpose of a living will?

• A. To outline funeral arrangements
• B. To state health care decisions when one is unable to decide
• C. To provide general healthcare instructions
• D. To appoint a healthcare proxy

Answer: (B)

The purpose of a living will is to state health care decisions when an individual is unable to make those decisions themselves due to illness or incapacity. It serves as a legal document that communicates a person's preferences regarding medical treatment and interventions in situations where they cannot articulate their wishes. This can include preferences around lifesaving measures, resuscitation, and other critical health care decisions.

A living will is particularly important in guiding healthcare providers and family members in making choices that align with the individual's values and desires, thereby ensuring that their treatment preferences are respected during times of medical crisis. While other documents, such as a healthcare proxy, designate someone to make decisions on a person's behalf, the living will specifically focuses on the individual's direct healthcare choices.