What is the primary purpose of advanced directives?

The primary purpose of advanced directives is to provide guidance on medical decisions and end-of-life interventions. These documents allow individuals to express their preferences regarding medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. Advanced directives can include living wills and durable powers of attorney for healthcare, which specify what kind of medical care the individual wishes to receive, or not receive, under certain circumstances. This ensures that their healthcare aligns with their personal values and desires when they are unable to make those decisions for themselves.

In contrast, detailing financial obligations, serving as a testament to a person's estate, or establishing a will for property distribution primarily focus on legal and financial matters. While these documents are important, they do not address the medical decisions and healthcare preferences that advanced directives specifically cater to, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding a person’s health-related choices.