A: Accidents and sudden illness can occur at any age, so it is important to take the steps necessary to ensure the best possible outcome for a worst-case scenario. If advance healthcare planning is taken seriously and properly communicated, a designated agent or proxy will have legal authority to oversee end-of-life care decisions, allowing your physicians to provide the best possible treatment in conjunction with your wishes. It also provides your loved ones with the proper guidance to make these critical and difficult decisions in line with your intentions. 

A: A Living Will is a written document that allows you to list medical treatments that you would or would not want if you become terminally ill and were unable to make your own decisions. While NOT a legal document in Massachusetts it is important in documenting a person's values, wishes and preferences for their loved ones and doctors when they are faced with medical decisions on the person's behalf.