Eight Reasons Every 21-Year-Old Needs a Living Will (Yes, Even You!)
BY JODI M. CLOCK, CCA, CPLP, AUTHOR, IT'S COMPLICATED!
Let's be honest, planning for the unpredictable isn't exactly our favorite pastime. But what if you viewed an unexpected departure as a chance to provide clarity, comfort, and a source of direction for your family, rather than panic and disarray?
It's ironic: vitally important documents for protecting young adults are often an afterthought until they almost reach retirement years. Please join me in helping young adults, especially young parents, in understanding “why” planning for the unforeseen should become the normal.
Like anything else, if you don’t know, you don’t do. It all starts with education. When parents, schools, and churches start talking about any kind of planning in general, it does not become intimidating. When the areas of discussion become specific, referrals, recommendations, and tools can be provided.
For the purpose of this conversation, I will share from my perspective the very first planning document everyone should have and why.
“Living Will” Otherwise Known as a “Medical Power of Attorney.” Forget retirement age! One crucial document every 21-year-old and older should have is a Living Will.
Many times, people will refer to it as a “Medical Power of Attorney” or “Patient Advocate.” Please don’t let that confuse you, as they are the same document, with the same purpose. Having a Living Will is not about dwelling on death, but about ensuring your voice is heard, and your wishes are respected, even if the future takes an unexpected turn. Living Wills are a dynamic document that can and should be updated as your life situation changes.
Below are eight key benefits regardless of your age to having a living will.
1. Ensures your wishes are respected. This is the primary benefit. In the event you're unable to speak for yourself your medical preferences due to illness or injury, your Living Will provides clear instructions for doctors and family members regarding your desired treatment plan. This document eliminates confusion and uncertainty. More importantly, it ensures your loved ones don't have to make agonizing decisions on your behalf.
2. It provides clarity and avoids misinterpretations. A Living Will, is a well-documented expression of your wishes, therefore reducing the risk of misinterpretations or disagreements between family members and medical professionals.
3. Covers more than just medical decisions. Beyond life-sustaining treatments, Living Wills can include preferences for organ donation, funeral arrangements, and other end-of-life wishes, offering a holistic picture of your desires.
4. Empowers young adults. A Living Will is crucial for young adults as mentioned above. Accidents and serious illnesses can happen at any age, and having a living will protects your loved ones and ensures your voice is heard.
5. Easy to create. Creating a Living Will is typically straightforward. Many online resources and legal templates are available, and some healthcare providers or lawyers can offer guidance.
6. Dynamic and adaptable. Your Living Will is not a permanent document. You can update it anytime your wishes or life circumstances change, ensuring it remains relevant and reflects your current values.
7. Reduces stress and burden on loved ones. When faced with a loved one's serious illness, family members naturally experience immense stress. Knowing your wishes through a living will can alleviate some of that burden and allow them to focus on emotional support and caregiving.
8. Gives you peace of mind. Knowing your future medical care is dictated by your own choices, not chance, can be immensely comforting. Having a living will allows you to take control and exercise autonomy even in uncertain circumstances.
Look at it this way, making a Living Will isn’t just paper and ink, it can be a conversation starter. As a young adult you can discuss this with your parents. Envision this, you're sitting across from parents, talking about the unspoken. Quickly you will find out if your parents have any plans in place. If they haven’t, this may be the encouragement they needed to do so.
As mentioned earlier, Living Wills don’t have to be expensive. Many people make the assumption that they will need to go to an attorney to do this…but that's simply not true! Creating a living will is far more accessible and affordable than most realize.
Here are your options.
1. DIY Templates. Numerous trustworthy websites and organizations offer free, legal living will templates that you can easily download and complete. Choose resources from reputable sources like:
• The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization: https://www.nhpco.org/about-nhpco/patients-and-caregivers/what-are-advance-directives/
• The American Bar Association: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/law_aging/resources/health_care_decision_making/Advanceplanningresources/
• Your state's health department website: Many states provide downloadable forms specific to their legal requirements.
2. Non-profit Assistance. Some non-profit organizations offer living will creation support and guidance, often even for free. Look into resources like:
• The Legal Aid Society: https://legalaidnyc.org/
• Aging Life Care Association: https://www.aginglifecare.org/
• Your local Area Agency on Aging: These government agencies often provide legal and resources support for older adults.
3. Lawyer Consultation. While an attorney isn't always necessary, consulting one can be beneficial for personalized guidance, especially if your situation is complex or you have specific questions. Legal fees for living will creation vary but can be surprisingly affordable when compared to the peace of mind it brings.
Time to take control. Regardless of the path you choose, prioritize finding a reputable and trustworthy source for your living will template or legal assistance. Should you not use an attorney, it’s always a best practice, to have a notary sign and witness your signature for important documents. Remember, cost does not have to be a barrier to securing your future and protecting your loved ones.
In closing, now's the time to take control and invest in your peace of mind! Download a template and create a Living Will that reflects your wishes and values. It's a simple yet powerful act that empowers you and your loved ones in the face of the unknown!
These links can be found on my website jodiclock.com.
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Be sure to check out my podcast, “I Woke Up Dead…Now What?” to learn more! Feel free to contact me at askjodiclock@gmail.com and give me a follow on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram!
Jodi M. Clock is an international speaker and expert on how to help families have a difficult conversation with their loved ones about legacy planning. Having personally witnessed the financial confusion that families endure, especially at an emotionally taxing time, Ms. Clock has centered her career on helping people to understand the options that are available to them. She currently writes and speaks about the basics of Medicaid and asset protection, how to avoid family feuds, end-of-life directives and is a seasoned expert in on pet trusts, as well as their final care. Since 1988 Jodi has worked in the "end-of-life planning" industry including family and corporately owned funeral homes, advance funeral planning companies, casket manufacturers and now practices what she preaches at Clock Funeral Home and Clock Timeless Pets with her husband Dale.
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