Glossary

 A personal directive is a comprehensive legal document that enables individuals to clearly outline their wishes and preferences regarding their medical care, private affairs, and other crucial decisions. 

In the event that they become incapacitated and unable to make decisions for themselves, the document serves as a guide for their appointed representative or health care provider. 

By creating a personal directive, individuals can ensure their voice is heard, and their values are respected, providing them with a sense of security and control over their future.

Personal directive documents can include:

• A Health Care Proxy — A legally binding document assigning someone to make health care decisions on an individual's behalf if the individual is unable to do so.

• A Living Will — A legal document outlining an individual's wishes for medical treatment in the event they become incapacitated.

• A Power of Attorney — A certified document declaring someone to handle an individual's financial affairs if the individual is unable to do so themselves.

A personal directive can ensure an individual's wishes are respected, and their loved ones clearly understand their preferences by having sound personal directives in place.

Personal directives allow individuals to specify their preferences for medical treatment, end-of-life care, and other essential matters. The documents provide a way for individuals to maintain control over their lives and ensure that their wishes are respected and followed, even when they are unable to make decisions for themselves due to illness or incapacity. 

By creating an advance directive, individuals can clearly communicate their values and preferences to their loved ones and healthcare providers and have peace of mind knowing their wishes will be upheld.