Remember the tragic case of Terri Schiavo, who collapsed at 26 years old and became incapacitated? Her loved ones engaged in a seven year court battle regarding whether or not she should be kept alive via artificial means while in a persistent vegetative state.

This could have been avoided if Terri’s wishes had been made clear by completing simple documents called Advance Health Care Directives.

There are two distinct elements to advance health care directives, though some states combine them into a single document.

First is a “living will,” “health care declaration,” or “directive to physicians,” which is a signed document directed towards health care professionals specifying the kind of care you wish to receive in the event you become incapacitated and cannot communicate on your own behalf.

Second is a “medical power of attorney” or “durable power of attorney for health care,” which is a signed document where you appoint a trusted person (called your health care “agent” or “proxy” or “attorney in fact”) to make medical decisions for you in the event you become incapacitated and cannot communicate on your own behalf.

One other related element is a “durable power of attorney for finances” where a financial agent or proxy is authorized to pay your bills, file insurance claims and conduct other elements of your financial life.

A good resource to learn more and access free advance health care directive forms for each state is 501(c)(3) non-profit NHPCO’s website.

Mark Gavagan is the author of two books that help families organize and plan their personal & financial affairs: “The It’s All Right Here Life & Affairs Organizer” and “12 Critical Things Your Family Needs to Know”.