Contents
Form Example
Texas Living Will Template
This Living Will is created in accordance with the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 166. This document expresses your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that you become unable to communicate your desires.
Principal Information:
- Full Name: ________________________________________
- Address: ________________________________________
- City, State, Zip Code: ____________________________
- Date of Birth: ____________________________________
Designation of Wishes:
If I become terminally ill or permanently unconscious, I do not want my life to be artificially prolonged under such circumstances. I wish to receive only the following types of medical care:
- 1. Pain relief and comfort care.
- 2. Any treatment necessary to keep me comfortable, but not any treatment that would prolong my life.
- 3. If my condition is reversible and the chance of recovery is significant, I want all necessary measures taken to restore my health.
Additional Instructions:
If I have not specifically mentioned a situation, I trust my healthcare agents or family members to make decisions regarding my treatment based on my known wishes and best interests.
Witnesses:
This document must be signed in the presence of two qualified adult witnesses who are not related to me, who are not my attending physician, and who will not inherit from me:
- Witness 1: ________________________________________
- Witness 2: ________________________________________
Signatures:
I, ________________________ (Print Name), hereby declare that I understand the contents of this Living Will and that it reflects my wishes.
Signature: ________________________________________
Date: ________________________________________
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Common mistakes
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Not understanding the purpose: Many individuals fill out the Texas Living Will form without fully grasping its purpose. A living will is meant to outline medical preferences in case one becomes unable to communicate their wishes.
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Inadequate detail: Some people provide vague instructions regarding their medical care. Specificity is crucial; general statements may lead to confusion during critical moments.
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Failing to sign and date: A common oversight is neglecting to sign and date the form. Without a signature, the document may be considered invalid, rendering it ineffective in emergencies.
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Not discussing with family: Many individuals complete the form without discussing their wishes with family members. Open conversations can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that loved ones are aware of the individual’s preferences.
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Choosing an inappropriate agent: Some people select an agent who may not fully understand their wishes or may not be able to act in their best interest. It’s essential to choose someone who is trustworthy and capable of making difficult decisions.
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Not updating the document: Life circumstances change, and so do preferences. Failing to review and update the living will periodically can lead to outdated instructions that no longer reflect current wishes.
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Ignoring state-specific requirements: Each state has its own regulations regarding living wills. Some individuals overlook Texas-specific requirements, which can lead to legal challenges or invalidation of the document.
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Overlooking witness requirements: Texas law requires that the living will be signed in the presence of two witnesses or notarized. Neglecting this step can result in the document being deemed invalid.
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Not considering alternate scenarios: Some individuals fail to consider various medical scenarios when filling out the form. It’s important to think through different situations and how preferences may change in each case.
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Assuming it’s a one-time task: Many people mistakenly believe that once the living will is completed, it doesn’t need further attention. In reality, ongoing discussions and updates are vital to ensure it remains relevant.
Key takeaways
Filling out and using the Texas Living Will form is an important step in making your healthcare preferences known. Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- Understand the Purpose: A Texas Living Will allows you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that you become unable to communicate those wishes yourself.
- Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to create a valid Living Will in Texas.
- Specific Instructions: Clearly outline your preferences for life-sustaining treatment, including whether you want or do not want to receive such treatments in certain medical situations.
- Witness Requirements: The form must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to you or entitled to any portion of your estate.
- Review Regularly: It is advisable to review your Living Will periodically, especially after major life changes, to ensure it still reflects your wishes.
- Provide Copies: After completing the form, share copies with your healthcare provider, family members, and anyone else who may be involved in your care.
Taking these steps can help ensure that your healthcare preferences are respected and followed in times of need.
Steps to Using Texas Living Will
Completing a Texas Living Will form is an important step in expressing your healthcare wishes. Once you fill out the form, it’s essential to ensure that it is signed and witnessed according to state requirements. This helps ensure your preferences are respected in medical situations where you may not be able to communicate them.
- Begin by downloading the Texas Living Will form from a reliable source or obtain a physical copy from a healthcare provider.
- Read through the entire form carefully to understand the sections and options available.
- Fill in your personal information, including your full name, address, and date of birth, in the designated areas.
- Decide on your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments. Check the appropriate boxes to indicate your choices.
- Consider any specific instructions you want to include. Write these in the space provided, if applicable.
- Sign and date the form at the bottom. Ensure your signature is clear and matches your name as written above.
- Have the form witnessed by two individuals who are not related to you and do not stand to gain from your estate. They must also sign the form.
- Make copies of the signed form for your records and to share with your healthcare provider and family members.