LIVING WILLS IN INDIA

Dr Smriti Khanna gives you the lowdown on — what they are, why they matter, and how to make one

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Kavita is terrified of dying her father's death. 'He had dementia and was bedridden for the last three years of his life. He stopped recognising us, and I could see him suffering. What if something like this happens to me?' she said as she walked into the Living Will Clinic. 'I want to tell my children, if I reach a point like that, don't take me to the hospital. Even if I do go to the hospital, if my doctor feels that treatment is not going to improve my quality of life, what is the use of going on the ventilator?' Kavita says her family understands her feelings but she does not want to place either guilt or responsibility on them. 'The decision should be mine and mine alone. That's why I want to make a Living Will.' Read on to know why one should make a Living Will.

A Living Will, also known as an advance medical directive, is a written legal document in which you outline your preferences for medical treatment in case you are ever unable to communicate your wishes. It typically comes into play in scenarios like terminal illness or vegetative state, guiding doctors and family on whether to use or withhold life-sustaining interventions. In essence, a Living Will is your voice during critical medical moments when you cannot speak for yourself.

Living Will vs Last Will and testament: A Last Will (regular will) deals with your assets and property after your death - it specifies how your estate should be distributed to heirs. In contrast, a Living Will has nothing to do with property or finances; it deals with healthcare decisions while you are still alive but incapacitated. Both are legal documents reflecting your wishes, but one speaks for your belongings after death, whereas the other speaks for your medical care before death.