Michael Williams shares some reflections on "living wills" (also known as advance directives or letters of wishes).

A living will documents your wishes or instructions for the treatments or care you would want to be withdrawn during the final stages of life if the quality of life cannot be guaranteed. Of course, "quality of life" needs to be defined. What would you be prepared to live with or without?

People often ask that "heroic measures" not be taken. Again, these "measures" need to be detailed and could include CPR, antibiotics, mechanical ventilation, and feeding tubes. It's important to discuss your wishes with family and loved ones, especially with you power-of-attorney for personal and health care.