The Scarborough Public Library will host a workshop on preparing an advance directive, commonly referred to as a living will. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Public Library, 48 Gorham Road. The program is free but seating is limited. Reservations may be made by calling the Library at 883-4723.

This workshop is intended for anyone 18 or older who is interested in providing instructions to their family and medical caregivers in the event they are ever too sick to make their choices known. Forms and information for completing a directive that is honored in Maine will be provided at the meeting.

Presenters include Rebecca Henry, an attorney with Legal Services for the Elderly. Henry will address general legal information and the details that should be included in a directive. Dr. Stephen Kirsch, a family physician in Scarborough will discuss the conversation a person should have with their doctor and family and what a doctor’s responsibilities are if no instructions are available.Tony Attardo, EMS Director for the Town of Scarborough, will review regulations that govern the treatment decisions rescue personnel can make in an emergency.

Living wills have been widely discussed recently as part of the national debate on who has the right to make decisions for a person at the end of life. However, advance directives are also appropriate for any situation when a person is unable to express their opinion as the result of an illness or an accident.

Living wills have traditionally been associated with older people. Recent news events have increased the awareness that a directive is important for all adults to have, regardless of age. Directives should be reviewed regularly to be sure the document still names the appropriate person to make decisions on the patient’s behalf.

Additional information on living wills is available on the library’s website, www.library.scarborough.me.us.