Final answer:
Living wills are the expression of a patient's decisions regarding end of life issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
They are written legal documents that detail specific interventions a person wants, such as whether they want to receive life-extending treatments or be resuscitated. Living wills can also include a health care proxy, which appoints a person to make medical decisions for the patient if they are unable to speak for themselves. Religious, cultural, and upbringing factors often influence people's desires for living wills and end of life decisions.