SN instructed on the benefits of having Advance Directives. What are advance directives? Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to spell out ahead of time what types medical care you would want if you ever became unable to speak for yourself. These documents can help ensure that you get the care you want even if you have an unexpected serious illness or accident. The documents can also make things easier for the people who will need to make decisions for you if you ever become unable to make them for yourself.