Advance directives are an essential estate planning tool for Michigan residents. This document outlines what should happen if you cannot make your own medical decisions.
The document will list your wishes for end-of-life care and what should be done under different medical conditions and situations. It will appoint someone as your health care agent and power of attorney.
Why is an advance directive essential?
You should set up an advance directive if you have strong opinions about how your end-of-life care is handled. Your family would be in charge of making health care decisions on your behalf without an advance directive.
Your family’s judgment may be clouded by their emotions. You and your family may disagree about handling major medical decisions, and the stress of trying to make the “right” decision can be a lot for anyone.
For example, you might already know that you want to go to a specific assisted living facility when the time comes. Your family wouldn’t know this unless that wish is stated in your advance directive. Without those instructions in your estate plan, you could end up anywhere.
Setting up an advance directive
Your advance directive will be unique to your family, your health concerns and your preferences. Some people find it helpful to talk to their doctor to understand what should be included in your advance directive.
End-of-life planning can be uncomfortable, but setting up an advance directive is just one part of estate planning. Setting up your advance directive as part of your estate plan can take a huge burden off your family’s shoulders when that time comes. That’s why you want to set up your advance directive early and modify it as needed with the rest of your estate plan.