What is a "Living Will" primarily used for?

A "Living Will" is primarily used as a legal document that articulates a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate those wishes themselves. This document is essential for ensuring that healthcare providers and family members are informed about the individual's preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation efforts, artificial nutrition, and other medical interventions.

The purpose of a Living Will is to provide clarity and guidance in situations where decisions about medical care need to be made quickly and under difficult circumstances. It helps to prevent potential conflicts among family members and healthcare providers by clearly stating the individual's desires. As a result, it plays a critical role in respecting a person's autonomy and rights concerning their healthcare choices.

The focus on decisions about medical interventions differentiates a Living Will from other legal documents like power of attorney, which is related to financial affairs, or a last will and testament, which addresses estate distribution. Hence, the distinction is vital in understanding the specific role and importance of a Living Will in medical and ethical decision-making.