It is extremely important that at the end of one’s life their wishes are honored and goals are met. When tough decisions have to be made for family members, friends, and loved ones, the process is easier when the patient’s wishes are known. This can be accomplished by having an advance directive or a living will. It is very important that people are educated on what these documents are and why they are important to have.  

What is the difference between an Advance Directive and a Living Will?

Advance Directive: An advance directive is a document stating your health care choices or naming someone to make the choices for you if you become unable to do so. (Iowa Hospital Association, 2011)

Iowa Law provides two types of advance directives…

1. The Declaration Relating to Use of Life-Sustaining Procedures, known as a Living Will.

2. The Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

Living Will: A Living Will is a document directing your physician that certain life-sustaining procedures should be withheld or withdrawn if you are in a terminal condition and unable to decide yourself. (Iowa Hospital Association, 2011)

Here is a video that explains this subject in more detail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXXAjaarScQ

Reference:
Iowa Hospital Associated. (2011).