What is a Living Will?
A Living Will is a written statement that expresses your wishes about medical treatment that would delay death from a terminal condition. It also applies to situations of persistent vegetative state or irreversible coma. A Living Will would speak for you in the event that you were unable to communicate.
It gives direction and guidance to others, but is not as broadly applicable as a Durable Health Care Power of Attorney. For example, a Living Will does not permit health care providers to stop tube feeding - only an agent appointed by a Durable Health Care Power of Attorney or a court-appointed guardian may make such a decision.