ElderCare Transitions

Let’s talk about…Power of Attorney & Advanced Directives!

For many of people, if I mention appointing a Power of Attorney, they feel as if I am suggesting they give up their independence and control.  Quite the contrary!  By identifying who you want to assume responsibility for your decision-making is a very powerful statement.  A well-crafted document is actually the best way for you continue to exercise your control and direct your decision-making if you should become incapacitated.

Many individuals have said “I am quite capable of making my own decisions!”  And that is true.  However, if the situation arises when you are:

• Suddenly incapacitated due to illness or accident
• You undergo a surgical procedure and complications arise

Who will speak for you?  More importantly, who have you spoken to that knows how you want to be treated or cared for?

Hospitals and physicians’ offices are required to ask if you have Advanced Directives – that is the document that let’s medical professionals know how you want to be medically cared for in a life-threatening situation.  It is also considered a document that advises those close to you how you want end of life care to be directed.  Again, this is a document that allows you to retain control of your life choices.

Both the documents mentioned are critical for so many reasons.  First, it allows you piece of mind that you have chosen “who” is in charge if you can’t be.  It assures you that “what” you want to happen is what happens.  And most importantly, if and “when” something happens, your loved ones are not operating in panic or crisis mode - because you put together a plan.

If you need help starting the conversation, let’s talk!