You, Your Deathbed Decisions, and Avoiding the Family Feud: How to Write a Living Will in Pennsylvania
Let's face it, folks, none of us are getting out of here alive. But that doesn't mean we have to be a complete drag when we shuffle off this mortal coil! Especially not for our loved ones. This is where the magnificent living will comes in, Pennsylvania peeps. It's basically a cheat sheet for your final wishes, letting everyone know exactly what kind of medical intervention you're cool with (or not so cool with) when you're too busy haunting libraries or chilling in the afterlife margaritaville.
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| How To Write A Living Will In Pennsylvania |
Why You Need This Like Yesterday (Unless You're a Vampire)
Imagine this: you're out there bungee jumping, because, hey, you're young and fearless (or maybe just incredibly clumsy), and things go a little south. Suddenly, you're in the hospital, non-responsive, and your family's left scrambling to figure out what you'd want. Do you want to be hooked up to every machine known to man? Or maybe you'd prefer a more peaceful exit. A living will cuts through the confusion, like a lightsaber through a birthday cake (though hopefully things never get that dramatic at your next birthday bash).
Bold Text Bonus: Having a living will can also help avoid those messy family feuds that erupt over hospital bills and ventilators. No one wants Aunt Mildred throwing a tantrum because Uncle Bob "gave up too easily."
Crafting Your Masterpiece: How to Write a Living Will in PA
Creating a living will in Pennsylvania is easier than Parallel parking a Tesla (though maybe not that easy). Here's the lowdown:
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
- Grab Your Pen and Channel Your Inner Lawyer (Just Kidding, PJs Are Fine): There's no official state form, but you can find plenty of free templates online.
- Fill 'Er Up: The template will ask for basic info like your name and birthday, and then dive into the good stuff: what treatments you do or don't want in certain situations.
- Witness Time! Get two trusty friends or fam members (over 18, not your pet goldfish) to witness you signing the document. They basically pinky swear they saw you do the whole thing in your right mind.
- Notarization Station (Optional Stop): Pennsylvania doesn't require a notary, but it can't hurt for extra peace of mind.
Important Text: Be as specific as possible in your wishes. Don't just say "do everything" or "pull the plug." Consider things like artificial respiration, hydration, and pain medication.
So You've Got a Living Will, Now What?
- Show it Off! Make sure your doctor, family, and close friends have a copy.
- Review and Revise: Life changes, so revisit your living will every few years and update it if needed.
Because Life Happens: If your medical situation gets complex, your doctor will still need to make some calls, but your living will provides a clear roadmap for your wishes.
Living Will FAQ: Your Questions Answered (Cliff Notes Edition)
How to get a living will template in Pennsylvania?
Tip: Share one insight from this post with a friend.
A quick web search for "Pennsylvania living will template" should do the trick.
Do I need a lawyer to write a living will?
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Nope! The templates are pretty straightforward.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Who can be a witness for my living will?
Anyone over 18 who isn't related to you by blood or marriage, isn't your doctor or caregiver, and isn't inheriting anything from you.
Does my living will need to be notarized?
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
Pennsylvania doesn't require it, but it's an option for extra security.
Can I change my living will later?
Absolutely! It's your document, you can update it whenever you want.
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