By Ewa Frydel, Owner

End-of-life conversations are difficult to have with our senior loved ones. Not only does it bring up a whirl of emotions, it can also cause arguments amongst family members, such as siblings who share the load of caregiving.

However, it is crucial to have the discussion around making arrangements for the sake of your elderly parent’s well-being and peace of mind during this chapter of their life.

Their interests need protection.

There may come a time when they cannot make decisions for themselves and will require assistance from someone legally responsible and qualified to do so for them.

That one important legal tool: Power of Attorney (POA).

This blog will explore the role of a POA for seniors and will highlight just how important it is to protect their financial, healthcare, and personal affairs.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A POA is a legal document. This particular document grants authority to an appointed person (known as an agent or attorney-in-fact) to act on behalf of someone else (known as the principal).

In this case, the principal is your senior parent. This document allows the agent to make the important decisions and care for matters in favor of and in the best interest of the principal.

Why is a Power of Attorney Important?

Financial Matters. For seniors, managing their finances can become difficult as they age. Especially if your senior has Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Those appointed as the agent can take charge of payments, managing investments, filing taxes, and other responsibilities.

Healthcare Decisions. Seniors can face medical challenges that make it difficult for them to make sound decisions for their health. The agent is allowed to make those sound decisions. This includes consent for treatments, selecting healthcare providers, and even end-of-life decisions.

Personal Matters. A Power of Attorney can also manage real estate, legal documentation, and addressing insurance claims. 

Types of Power of Attorney:

1. General POA. Grants broad authority to the agent so they can act on behalf of the senior in need for various types of matters. This does cease to exist if the principal becomes mentally incapacitated or passes away.

2. Durable POA. This remains valid even if the principal becomes mentally incapacitated or passes away. Typically, this is the best option for seniors to trust their assets and other affairs are handled to their liking after they pass on.

The Power of Attorney is invaluable and has been a saving grace for many families and seniors. Choosing the agent may bring on more difficult discussions ahead, but you’ll want your senior to make that decision. They need to be comfortable and trusting of who is appointed.

If you share caregiving responsibilities with siblings, choose the person who is great with finances, making hard decisions, and organized to handle the various affairs that come up during this time of your senior’s life… and beyond.

For more information on a Power of Attorney, consult with a qualified attorney to make sure all interests are protected through a comprehensive POA arrangement.

If you need more guidance or information, please contact us.

We’re here to help!

Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about a Power of Attorney and should not be construed as medical advice.