Advance Directives
Picture of a family with a provider, working on a living will.
Your Healthcare. Your Decisions.
An advance directive allows you to document your healthcare wishes in case an illness or injury leaves you unable to communicate or make decisions for yourself. Planning ahead can help your family and healthcare team understand and honor your wishes.What Is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that provides instructions about your healthcare if you are unable to communicate your wishes.In Kentucky, a Living Will can allow you to:
- Name a healthcare surrogate to make healthcare decisions for you
- State your wishes about life-prolonging treatment
- State your wishes about artificial nutrition and hydration
- Express your wishes regarding organ donation
Who Should Have an Advance Directive?
Any adult age 18 or older may complete a Kentucky Living Will. You do not have to be seriously ill or facing surgery to create one. Advance care planning can be done at any time and your decisions can be reviewed as your wishes or circumstances change.Completing a Kentucky Living Will
The Kentucky Attorney General provides information about Kentucky Living Wills and a free Living Will Packet that you can download and complete.Click here for Kentucky Living Will information and forms
After You Complete Your Advance Directive
Talk with your family, healthcare provider and the person you have chosen to make healthcare decisions for you about your wishes. Give copies of your completed document to the people who may need it.You may also bring a copy of your completed advance directive to Crittenden Community Hospital so it can be placed in your medical record.
Need Help Planning?
The National Institute on Aging provides information and worksheets to help you think about your healthcare wishes, choose a healthcare proxy and discuss your decisions with your family and healthcare providers.Advance Care Planning Resources