What is the primary purpose of a living will?

The primary purpose of a living will is to provide instructions for medical procedures during a person's incapacity. This legal document specifies an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their preferences. It typically addresses issues such as life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation efforts, and other end-of-life care options. By outlining these preferences, a living will helps ensure that medical care aligns with the individual's values and desires, avoiding potential conflicts or confusion among family members or healthcare providers regarding the type of care the individual would want in critical situations.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects like asset distribution after death, which is handled by wills or trusts rather than living wills, or on financial planning, which is not the purpose of a living will at all. The living will is specifically designed for healthcare decisions rather than financial or estate planning matters.