What is a "living will"?

A "living will" refers to a document that specifically details an individual's preferences regarding medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacitation. This legal document typically outlines the types of medical interventions a person does or does not want, such as life-sustaining treatments or resuscitation efforts, particularly at the end of life. By articulating these preferences in advance, a living will ensures that an individual's healthcare choices are respected and followed, even when they cannot express them.

This definition is distinct from other types of documents related to wills or estate planning. For instance, a document that specifies an individual’s last wishes would generally refer to a traditional will, which addresses the distribution of assets after death, and not the medical care one desires while still alive. Similarly, a will effective upon death pertains to the distribution of someone's estate and does not encompass healthcare decisions during one's life. Lastly, a legal document that designates beneficiaries for assets is more aligned with estate planning and does not touch upon medical treatment preferences, which are the core focus of a living will. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence and purpose of what a living will is designed to do.