Blog
Practical, compassionate articles about living wills, advance directives, and end-of-life planning.
5 Things Your Living Will Should Never Say
Vague language in a living will can leave your family guessing and your doctors uncertain. Learn the five most common phrases that cause confusion — and what to write instead.
Read more →Feeding Tubes: What Your Family Needs to Know
When a living will says "no heroic measures," does that include a feeding tube? One family's painful experience reveals why specificity matters more than you think.
Read more →The Difference Between a Living Will and a DNR
Many people use these terms interchangeably, but a living will and a Do Not Resuscitate order serve very different purposes. Here's what you need to know.
Read more →How to Talk to Your Family About End-of-Life Wishes
It's one of the most important conversations you'll ever have — and one of the hardest to start. A practical guide to discussing your wishes with the people who matter most.
Read more →What Happens When You Don't Have a Living Will
Without a living will, doctors and family members are left to guess what you would have wanted. The consequences can be devastating — emotionally, financially, and legally.
Read more →A Guide to Choosing Your Healthcare Agent
Your healthcare agent may one day make life-or-death decisions on your behalf. Here's how to choose the right person and prepare them for the role.
Read more →Understanding CPR: What TV Doesn't Show You
Television dramas make CPR look routine and almost always successful. The reality is far more complicated — and understanding it is essential for your advance directive.
Read more →Why Young Adults Need a Living Will Too
You don't have to be elderly or terminally ill to need a living will. Accidents and unexpected illnesses can happen at any age — and being prepared matters.
Read more →Living Will vs. Healthcare Power of Attorney: What's the Difference?
These two documents work together but serve different functions. Understanding the distinction is key to making sure your wishes are fully covered.
Read more →How to Get Your Living Will Notarized: Step by Step
Many states require notarization to make your living will legally binding. Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to getting it done quickly and affordably.
Read more →When to Update Your Living Will: 7 Life Events That Should Trigger a Review
A living will isn't a set-it-and-forget-it document. Major life changes — from marriage to a new diagnosis — mean it's time to revisit your wishes.
Read more →Comfort Care: What It Means and Why It Matters
Comfort care focuses on quality of life rather than curing disease. Understanding what it involves can help you make informed decisions in your living will.
Read more →Important: This tool provides a template for creating a living will based on your state's general requirements. It is not legal advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified attorney. For complex medical situations, blended families, or significant assets, we recommend having an attorney review your document.