"Advanced Directives" is a term used to describe documents that state your wishes for medical care. These documents are important for your family and health care providers to have on file in the event you're unable to direct your own medical care.

The "Living Will" states your wishes concerning life support equipment, such as whether or not you would want to be placed on life support, for example a breathing machine. The "Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care" is a document that gives the authority for directing your health care to whoever you designate. In Ohio, these legal documents are periodically reviewed and revised by the state Bar Association. The most recent description of these documents can be found on the Ohio StateBar Association website.