Personal Directive

Personal Directive

Your health, your choices, your voice, even when you can't speak for yourself.

An unexpected illness, accident, or condition like dementia can leave anyone unable to make their own decisions, sometimes without warning. A personal directive ensures that if this ever happens, the person you trust most can make health care and personal decisions on your behalf, guided by your wishes.

Why a personal directive matters

Many people assume their spouse or family will automatically be able to make decisions for them. In Alberta, that isn't always the case. Without a personal directive, your loved ones may have limited authority, and for ongoing or significant decisions they may need to apply to the court to become your guardian. That process takes time, involves legal costs, and adds stress at an already difficult moment. It can also lead to disagreements among family members about what you would have wanted.

A personal directive removes the guesswork. It names the person you've chosen, called your agent, and gives them the authority to act for you.

With a personal directive, you can:

• Choose who will make health care and personal decisions for you
• Share your wishes about medical treatment, life support, and end-of-life care
• Decide where you would prefer to live and receive care
• Provide guidance on daily matters such as diet, activities, and who you spend time with
• Name a backup agent in case your first choice is unavailable
• Spare your family the burden of guessing what you would want

When does it take effect?

Your personal directive only comes into effect if you lose the ability to make your own personal decisions. As long as you're able to decide for yourself, you remain fully in control.

Who needs a personal directive?

Every adult benefits from having one, regardless of age or health. It's especially important if you:

• Have strong views about medical treatment or end-of-life care
• Are in a relationship and want your partner to have clear authority to act for you
• Have family members who may disagree about your care
• Are planning for retirement or later life
• Have a health condition that could affect your future decision-making

Our approach

These can be difficult things to think about, and we approach every conversation with care. We'll help you consider your values and wishes, choose the right agent, and put everything in clear, plain language. Your personal directive will be prepared to meet Alberta's legal requirements.

Complete your plan

A personal directive covers health care and personal decisions only. To protect your finances and property, you'll also want an enduring power of attorney, and a will to take care of your estate after you're gone. Together, these three documents form a complete estate plan. Ask us about our estate planning packages.

Plan today. Protect tomorrow.
Book your consultation today and make sure your voice is heard, no matter what the future holds.

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