Which document specifies an individual's medical intervention preferences if they become incapacitated?

The living will is a legal document that allows individuals to express their preferences regarding medical treatment if they become incapacitated and are unable to communicate their wishes. It specifically outlines the types of medical interventions that an individual does or does not want to receive in the event of a terminal illness or severe injury. This ensures that healthcare providers and loved ones are aware of the person's desires regarding end-of-life care.

A living will typically includes instructions about resuscitation efforts, life support, and other critical medical decisions. This clarity helps to alleviate the burden on family members during a difficult time by guiding them to make decisions that align with the individual’s wishes.

While a power of attorney and health care proxy involve assigning a person to make health care decisions on behalf of someone else, they do not directly specify the medical preferences themselves. An advance directive is a broader term that encompasses various legal documents, including living wills and durable power of attorney for healthcare; however, the living will specifically focuses on medical intervention preferences. Therefore, it is the living will that clearly outlines individual wishes for medical care in the event of incapacitation.