Which component of advanced directives specifies medical interventions desired by an individual?

The living will is the component of advanced directives that specifies the medical interventions desired by an individual. This legal document outlines a person's preferences regarding medical treatment and life-sustaining measures in situations where they are unable to communicate their wishes. It addresses scenarios such as end-of-life care, resuscitation, and other critical medical interventions, allowing individuals to have a say in their healthcare even when they cannot actively participate in decisions.

The power of attorney designates a specific person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual, but it does not detail specific medical interventions. A healthcare proxy also designates an individual to make decisions, but like the power of attorney, it does not articulate the patient's medical treatment preferences. Patient advocacy, while important in representing the needs and desires of patients, does not specifically define an individual's treatment preferences in an advanced directive context. Thus, the living will is the essential component that directly addresses an individual's desired medical interventions.