An Advance Directive allows you to let others know your choices for health care or to name someone to make those choices for you if you are not able to speak for yourself. You can say "yes" to life-prolonging treatment you want or "no" life-prolonging treatment you do not want.
Make sure that at least one person, such as your lawyer or a family member, knows that you have an Advance Directive and knows where you keep it. If you have a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, give a copy or the original to your agent. Keep a small card in your purse or wallet stating that you have an Advance Directive, where it is, and who your agents are, if you have named agents.
Because you might change your mind about what kind of medical treatment you want as you get older, you should read your Advance Directive at least once a year. If you make any changes, be sure to give copies of the changes to your doctor, agents, and others who need to know. Make sure the changes are witnessed.