Should I discuss the living will with my family?

A living will is a great tool to help you clarify what you would like to be done to you (medically) in certain situations when you cannot speak for yourself. Usually it also involves selecting a "health care proxy", someone who can speak for your behalf for medical decisions.  Unfortunately, medical decision making is so complex that a living will is just a good start. Unanticipated questions frequently arise when a patient is in a critical condition. Therefore, it is vitally important that you discuss your living will with as many family members, and close friends, as you can.  Beyond doubt, anyone who may be in a position to speak for you (or who thinks they should be in such a position), must be informed of what your living will says.  It is also important to give a copy of your living will to your doctors and to have a copy (all should be notorized) quickly available for ambulance crews should the need arise.