Update your Living Will ASAP if you've had any of these life changes…

In New York, what does a living will cover?

New York State law doesn't specify what instructions can be included in a Living Will. Still, the document does carry the weight of law, so it can be helpful if there is a disagreement among family and caregivers. With the help of your Will and Testament attorney, a Living Will can clear up your wishes on topics like:

• Antibiotic Use

• Artificial Hydration and Nutrition (such as a feeding tube)

• Blood Transfusions

• Cardiac Resuscitation

• Mechanical Resuscitation

• Pain medications and other measures to make you comfortable when there’s no chance of recovery

• Tissue and Organ Donation

When should your Living Will be updated?

• An extended period has passed since the last update

• Changing your mind about end-of-life care or other medical treatments

• Divorce

• Having a child or welcoming a new grandchild to the family

• Planning for an upcoming major surgery

• Marriage

• Medical laws that may affect your treatment options are changing

• Moving to New York from another state

• Retirement

• Significant changes occur to your health involving new medications or treatments

Failing to update this critical document could leave your family members in an awkward position. You don't want to have a former spouse who no longer has any role in your life making medical decisions if you are incapacitated. It is crucial to keep advanced medical directives like a Will as up-to-date as possible whenever a life change comes your way. 

This document is designed for general information only. The information presented on this document should not be construed to be formal legal or tax advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. 

For more information on this and other topics, please contact Kevin via any of the channels listed below: 📧kevin@kmckernan.com or 📞718-317-5007