Medical Jurisprudence Commons^™

For some people, the specter of being mired in progressively degenerative dementia is an intolerably degrading prospect. One avoidance tactic is to take steps to end one's existence while still competent. That risks a premature demise while still enjoying a tolerable lifestyle. The question arises whether an alternative tactic -- an advance directive declining all life-sustaining intervention once a certain point of debilitation is reached -- might be preferable. This article describes the legal and moral foundation for an advance directive declining even simplistic interventions at a relatively early stage of decline. My own model directive is included.