7 Things to Include in a Living Will (That Most People Forget)

A Wildflower Funeral Concepts Blog Post

When most people think about writing a living will, they focus on the basics—like naming a healthcare proxy or stating their wishes for life support. But the truth is, a living will can (and should) go beyond those basics to reflect your values, protect your loved ones from uncertainty, and ensure your end-of-life journey aligns with your life’s story.

Here are seven often-overlooked elements worth including:

1. Pain Management Preferences

It’s not just about whether or not you want aggressive treatments—it’s also about what level of comfort care you’d like. Do you want maximum pain relief even if it might affect alertness, or a lighter approach to stay more present? Spell it out clearly.

2. Spiritual or Cultural Requests

Whether you’d like certain prayers, rituals, or quiet space honored, documenting these preferences helps guide your care team and family.

3. Organ and Tissue Donation

Many people assume their driver’s license sticker covers this, but specifying your wishes in your living will provides extra clarity.

4. Music or Atmosphere at Your Bedside

Would you want calming music, nature sounds, or silence? These details may seem small, but they can provide comfort to you and those keeping vigil.

5. Mental Health Support

If you want access to counseling, chaplain visits, or grief support for your family, include it. These resources can ease the emotional toll for everyone involved.

6. Who You Want in the Room (and Who You Don’t)

It might feel awkward to name names, but being clear about who you’d like by your side—or who you’d prefer not to be there—can prevent conflict during difficult moments.

7. Legacy Wishes

From letters to loved ones to requests for video or audio recordings, a living will can include guidance on how you’d like your memory preserved.

At Wildflower, we believe that planning ahead is an act of love. By including these often-forgotten details, you make it easier for your family to focus on being present rather than worrying about what you “would have wanted.” Things to Include in a Living Will