Legal Definitions - declaration of a desire for a natural death

A declaration of a desire for a natural death is a legal document that expresses a person's wish to die naturally, without any extraordinary medical interventions or life-sustaining treatments. This document is also known as a living will.

For example, if a person is terminally ill and unable to communicate their wishes, a living will can guide their healthcare providers and family members in making end-of-life decisions. The living will can specify whether the person wants to be kept alive by artificial means, such as a ventilator or feeding tube, or whether they prefer to die naturally.

Another example is if a person has a chronic illness and wants to ensure that their end-of-life care aligns with their values and beliefs. They can create a living will to express their desire for a natural death and avoid unnecessary suffering.

In summary, a declaration of a desire for a natural death is a legal document that allows a person to make their end-of-life wishes known and ensure that their healthcare providers and loved ones respect their choices.