Advance directives and end-of-life conversations

The New York Times has an article regarding the disadvantages of advance directives. The main problem with them is that advance directives are seldom in places that first responders can find, and also that family members may not know about their existence or contents. While the same drawbacks apply to the Polst form, it is more specific in the event of terminal or life-threatening illness, where an advance directive may be vague or use outdated language. The very best way to ensure that your wishes are carried out is also the most difficult: speaking to your family members as well as filling out documentation.