Advance Directives in Georgia

Marriage with the child sits in front of the house

As we age, it is important to prepare for our future medical and financial care. This planning takes the burden off our loved ones and can bring us peace of mind knowing that our wishes will be carried out. There are several options to consider as you begin planning, and it can become overwhelming without solid advice.

Advance Directives

Advance directives are instructions about future medical treatment should you become unable to make decisions on your own. Each state has different requirements for advance directives. Georgia law allows you to name a health care agent who will make health care decisions for you if you are unable. It also allows you to state your treatment preferences. Your health care agent will follow your written directives, so it is vitally important to choose a representative that you trust will follow your wishes.

Be Prepared

It is important to have your information in order before you become incapacitated. This will make it much easier for your health care agent to follow your directions. It is a good idea to keep a file with the following information:

  • Full name and address
  • Birth date
  • Social Security number
  • Sources of income and assets
  • Insurance policies

Remember that your advance directives can be revised if the need arises. If you do make changes, discuss them with your health care agent, loved ones and other caregivers so they can follow your wishes without any confusion.

Making plans for your end-of-life care is something that many people want to avoid. It is never easy to consider your own mortality, but by careful planning, you can remove stress from your loved ones, allowing them to spend precious time with you without the fear of not having a plan in place. If you would like advice on advance directives or other end-of-life preparation, call Turner Law today at (404) 377-6941 and schedule a consultation.

Posted on the behalf of Turner Law, LLC