A living will is a document which defines someone’s wishes as to whether or not to be kept on artificial life support. These documents can also appoint someone to make important health care decisions on that person’s behalf in case they are unable to do so.

A living will is not a replacement for a Power of Attorney. The living will only gives the hospital or care facility permission to take directives, from the person appointed in the living will, regarding health decisions. It does not cover any legal territory. In most cases a spouse or parent is allowed to make these directives without such a document, but it is best to consult with a lawyer regarding the details of your particular situation.

A living will may be useful if you happen to live far away from a parent and are receiving assistance from another non-immediate family member or friend whom you trust and may need to make quick medical decisions if you are unavailable.

Here is an article from USA Today which discusses this issue…

Living will laws, alone, can’t prevent end-of-life disputes