Since the publicity about Living Wills usually relates to people in a coma, it's easy to think of the document as useful only if you're in a coma but would want to tell your health care providers and loved ones: "Go ahead, I want you to pull the plug." or "Don't even think about touching that plug!" While Living Wills do only relate to a terminal situation, Living Wills can be far more inclusive than "pull the plug." A Living Will tells your family and caregivers the level of care that you want if you can't communicate yourself.

A Living Will does not prevent your receiving treatment if you are not in a terminal situation. If your condition becomes terminal, a Living Will does not prevent the provision of pain relief or comfort care.

If you are considering a Living Will (which we think everyone should), also consider executing a Health Care Proxy and a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Directive. The Proxy gives a trusted person the authority to make decisions in all the gray areas not covered in a Living Will. He or she will also help enforce the terms of a Living Will. The DNR covers the specific situation of what to do if you stop breathing. All three documents are complementary.

Take the steps necessary to assure that the wishes expressed in your Living Will are carried out.

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