To ensure your wishes are followed in end-of-life care, it’s advisable to create an Advance Directive for Medical and Surgical Treatment and a Medical Power of Attorney. Otherwise known as a living will, the Advance Directive outlines your preferences for medical care, such as whether you want to be on life support or receive other treatment. The Medical Power of Attorney designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot.

DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) is an ordered medical directive instructing emergency medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest. DNR orders are typically reserved for individuals with terminal illnesses or those who have expressed a desire not to be resuscitated.

Ensure your primary healthcare provider, spouse or partner, adult children or other relatives, medical power of attorney, and will’s executor have copies of your Advance Directives. It’s also advisable to keep a copy of your Advance Directives with other important documents, such as your will and insurance policies.