You’ve led a good life. Living wills and advance health care directives are written, legal instructions regarding your medical care preferences if you are unable to decide for yourself. These important documents direct choices for doctors and caregivers if you are terminally ill, seriously injured, in a coma, in a late stage of dementia or near the end of life.

These directives are not just for older adults. Unexpected end-of-life situations can happen at any age, and any time. It’s important for all adults to prepare these documents.

Planning upfront you can get the medical care you want, avoid unnecessary suffering, and relieve caregivers of decision-making burdens during moments of crisis or grief. You also help reduce confusion or disagreement about the choices you would want people to make on your behalf.