Frequently asked questions about Living Wills

Can a health care professional act against the wishes stated in a living will?

Health Care professional can act against the wishes stated in the living will if;

• there is evidence that the living will is out dated and other wishes have been stated by the individual
• the health care professional is aware of any life changes such as a change in religion which may affect the original living will
• the living will is unclear or inconsistent
• the individual has been treated under the Mental Health Act
• the request made in the document goes against the health carers professional judgement.

Can a living will be made verbally?

Obviously it is not ideal for any legally binding contract to be detailed in this way, however, if verbal instructions are given they should be actioned by the medical health care team. If decisions about future medical intervention is made then it is advisable to discuss these instructions with a health care professional, preferably a senior member of the health care team.

Can a living will be modified?

With medical science improving and evolving constantly it is advisable for living wills to be reviewed regularly. Any changes to the document should be stated clearly and re-signed. Ideally the amendments should form a new Living will and the expired document should be destroyed.

Can anyone be appointed a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A 'Lasting Power of Attorney' should be a trusted close family member or friend who fully understands your wishes and opinions regarding the different types of medical intervention which may be used as a result of a serious illness or accident.

What wishes are not able to be fulfilled by a living will?

Requests to end a life in a living will ie; euthanasia will not be met. Nor is it possible or reasonable to request a Health care Professional to act against their professional judgement.

Download the Living Wills PDF Guide here - see our other free PDF guides here

Guide Contents

Living Wills
Writing a Living Will
In the absence of a living will
Frequently asked questions about Living Wills
Further help and guidance about Living Wills

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