Why Use a Power of Attorney?

Taking care of our aging loved ones is a serious task. We want to make sure that they get the best care possible. However, this can be difficult to balance. It is no easy feat to make all of the decisions for our loved ones and try to keep their best interests in mind. There is a way to protect their wishes and help you manage their care, a power of attorney.

What is a Power of Attorney?

Within a power of attorney, there are a couple of specific terms to consider. “The principal” refers to the individual who needs assistance from another individual. The principal must sign and consent to a power of attorney. Within the document, a specific person is specified as “the agent.” The agent is responsible for the principal’s well-being and any other components listed in the document.

Why is it Needed?

Having a designated agent to help care for your loved one makes it easier to navigate decisions regarding their care. However, you might be wondering why a power of attorney is needed in the first place. Here are common reasons as to why a family may consider a power of attorney:

Unstable Family Dynamic

Sometimes family members cannot get along. If this is the case, it is beneficial to identify one person responsible for life-changing decisions. This reduces the amount of arguing back and forth about potential choices.

Medical Diagnoses

If your loved one was recently diagnosed with a severe illness or condition such as Alzheimer’s, it might be time to identify a power of attorney. This should be completed as soon as possible while the family member can still consent to these decisions.

Financial Obligations

If your loved one has a hard time managing their finances, such as missing bills or overspending, you might need to consider a power of attorney. They can help manage your loved one’s income and ensure that they spend appropriately.

Work With an Attorney

To create a document that works for everyone involved, you should retain an experienced elder law attorney. Bush & Taylor, P.C. is well versed in elder law and cares about the well-being of your loved ones.

Reach our office today at (757) 926-0078 to schedule a consultation.