Join solicitor Heledd Wyn, a legal expert in future planning and member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers as she explains the differences between Advance Decisions (Living Wills) and Advance Statements. In this insightful video, Heledd discusses how these documents can help you to make your healthcare preferences known and legally binding.
What You’ll Learn
Advance Decisions (Living Wills):
Legal Binding Nature: Understand how an Advance Decision allows you to refuse specific medical treatments in the future.
Creating an Advance Decision: Learn the requirements for making it legally valid, including proper documentation and signing.
Communication is Key: Discover why it’s crucial to share your Advance Decision with healthcare providers, family, and carers to ensure your wishes are followed.
Real-Life Implications: Gain insights into how these documents can have significant effects on medical decisions.
Advance Statements:
Expression of Wishes: Find out how Advance Statements convey your preferences regarding care and treatment but are not legally binding.
Guiding Decision-Makers: See how these statements can assist your attorneys or healthcare professionals in understanding your values and desires.
Differences Between Advance Decisions and Advance Statements:
Legal Standing: Clarify the key distinctions to determine which document suits your needs.
Complementary Use: Learn how both documents can work together to provide a comprehensive view of your wishes.
Practical Considerations:
Regular Reviews: Appreciate the importance of updating your documents as your views or medical advancements change.
Informing Loved Ones: Get tips on discussing your wishes with family to ensure everyone is aware and informed.
Proper Storage: Understand where to keep these documents and how to make them accessible in emergencies.
Common Questions Answered:
Interaction with Lasting Powers of Attorney: Explore how Advance Decisions relate to or differ from Health and Welfare LPAs.
Scope of Decisions: Learn what you can and cannot include in these documents, such as treatment refusals and care preferences.
Why This Matters
Planning ahead with Advance Decisions and Advance Statements ensures your healthcare preferences are respected, even if you’re unable to communicate them in the future. By watching this video, you’ll gain the knowledge to:
Take Control: Take control of your medical treatment choices and ensure your voice is heard.
Provide Clarity: Reduce uncertainty and stress for your loved ones during difficult times.
Ensure Legal Validity: Understand how to make your wishes legally binding and recognised by healthcare professionals.