By An Advanced Directive is a simple form that gives a person a voice and say in their care even after they’ve lost the ability to speak for themselves. While the process may seem daunting at first, an advance directive can be completed in 3 easy steps. Find out how to Complete your Advance Directive!
Complete your Advance Directive in 3 Steps
Advance Directives for US Residents
Step 1 Print a copy of the Advance Directive and accompanying instructions. Visit Prepare for Your Care to access a library of state-specific forms, visit your state’s website to find alternate versions, access dementia specific forms or work with your attorney to draft a customized document.
Step 2 Complete as much or as little of the Advance Directive as you’d like. Strike through any areas you choose to leave blank.
Step 3 Find your state’s registry information via the American Bar Association, or use a private registry such as MedicAlert, US Living Will Registry or DocuBank. You can send copies to your legal advisor, estate attorney, Next of Kin or other likely agent.
Advance Directives for US Veterans
Step 1 Visit your the Veterans Administration Advance Care Resources website to locate the VA Advance Directive form and guides, including Form 10-0137B What You Should Know About Advance Directives. Choose the form that works best for you; the VA will accept their own Advance Directive or that from any state in the US.
Step 2 Complete as much or as little of the Advance Directive as you’d like. Strike through any areas you choose to leave blank. Feel free to add pages or include more information regarding your care; the VA encourages more detailed information than most state forms. You may choose to include the Mental Health Care Preferences addendum.
Step 3 Register a copy with the Veteran’s Health Administration by providing a copy to your doctor or contacting your local office. You may also choose to register your Advance Directive with your state or use a private registry such as MedicAlert, US Living Will Registry or DocuBank. You can send copies to your legal advisor, estate attorney, Next of Kin or other likely agent.
Advance Directives For Canadians
Step 1 Visit the Advance Care Planning Resource Library to find and print the appropriate resources for your province along with the National Workbook.
Step 2 Complete as much or as little of the Advance Directive as you’d like. Strike through any areas you choose to leave blank.
Step 3 Complete your Speak Up wallet card and register your documents with Nidus for $25. You can send copies to your legal advisor, estate attorney, Next of Kin or other likely agent.
Are there resources to Complete your Advance Directive in languages other than English?
Yes! We have a list of Advance Directives in many languages on our post What are Advance Directives?
Not sure what an advance directive is? Read more HERE.
More questions about Advance Directions, visit our ADVANCE DIRECTIVES FAQ.
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