Which type of directive specifies a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate?

A living will is a legal document that outlines a person's preferences and wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their decisions due to illness or incapacity. This directive specifically addresses issues such as life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and other medical interventions. It allows individuals to express their desires about the types of medical care they wish to receive or refuse, ensuring that their autonomy is respected even when they cannot speak for themselves.

In contrast, while a power of attorney provides a designated person with the authority to make decisions on behalf of someone else, it does not inherently specify medical treatment preferences. A healthcare proxy also designates someone to make healthcare decisions but is generally used in conjunction with a living will to provide clarity on the person's wishes. Durable power of attorney for healthcare is similar to the healthcare proxy but emphasizes continuation of authority even under incapacitated conditions. However, the living will remains the specific document that articulates the individual’s medical treatment wishes.