How to Create an Advance Directive That Reflects Personal Values and Beliefs

An advance directive is more than just a legal document—it’s a powerful statement of your personal values, beliefs, and wishes for future medical care. Whether you’re planning for peace of mind or preparing for unexpected health situations, this guide will help you create an advance directive that truly reflects who you are.

1. Understand What an Advance Directive Is

An advance directive is a written statement that outlines your preferences for medical treatment if you become unable to communicate or make decisions. It typically includes two main parts:

• Living Will: Specifies the types of medical treatments you want or do not want.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: Names someone you trust (a healthcare proxy) to make decisions on your behalf.

2. Reflect on Your Personal Values and Beliefs

Before writing anything, take time to think deeply about what matters most to you, such as:

• Quality of Life: What makes life meaningful to you? Independence? Consciousness? Freedom from pain?
• Faith and Spiritual Beliefs: Do your religious or spiritual views guide your thoughts about life support, pain relief, or end-of-life care?
• Medical Interventions: How do you feel about CPR, feeding tubes, mechanical ventilation, or organ donation?
• Family and Relationships: How much involvement do you want your family to have in your healthcare decisions?

Write these reflections down. They’ll serve as the foundation of your directive.

3. Talk to Your Loved Ones

Your advance directive should not come as a surprise. Discuss your values and choices with family members, close friends, and especially the person you might name as your healthcare proxy. Clear communication helps prevent confusion and emotional conflict later on.

4. Choose Your Healthcare Proxy Wisely

Your healthcare proxy should be:

• Someone you trust completely
• Able to handle stressful situations calmly
• Willing to advocate for your values and wishes
• Familiar with your beliefs and preferences

Discuss your directive with them in detail, and ensure they’re comfortable taking on the role.

5. Put It in Writing

Once you’re clear on your values and choices, complete your advance directive forms. These vary by country or region, so be sure to use the correct legal version for your location.

Be clear and specific. Examples:

• “I do not want to be kept alive by machines if there is no chance of recovery.”
• “Pain relief is a priority, even if it may shorten my life.”
• “I want music or prayer as part of my care.”

6. Review It Regularly

Life changes—so might your beliefs and preferences. Review your directive every few years or after major life events (marriage, diagnosis, loss of a loved one) to ensure it still reflects your current wishes.

7. Share It

Give copies of your advance directive to:

• Your healthcare proxy
• Your doctor or medical provider
• A close family member or friend
• Your attorney (if applicable)

You can also carry a card in your wallet that notes you have an advance directive and who to contact in case of emergency.

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Final Thoughts

Creating an advance directive is a thoughtful and empowering step. It ensures that your care aligns with your deepest values—whether they’re based on faith, family, independence, or dignity. At Neftaly, we encourage everyone to make their voice heard, even when they can’t speak for themselves.