One of my goals as a consultant and proactive caregiver advocate is to educate families to put in place essential documents that could save time and resources. A Power of Attorney is one such document, necessary when a loved one shows signs of cognitive decline. As a caregiver, handling the business affairs of those in your care is just as important as activities of daily living(bathing, feeding, toileting).
If it becomes apparent that your loved one’s decision-making is in question, you will have difficulty getting a Power of Attorney after the fact. This lends to a short conversation about genetics and family history. Genetically, we have no control, but it does give insight into potential medical problems. Ask yourself…what is your family’s health history? What health conditions has your immediate family experienced? Are there chronic or cognitive conditions(heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, dementias, cancers)? This also lends to conversations with loved ones(while able) about the best person to manage the business and financial affairs if loved ones cannot decide for themselves.
A Power of Attorney is a legal declaration that lets a designated person make decisions for a loved one in financial and healthcare matters. When a legal declaration is not in place, and the court has given permission(also called guardianship, which involves court oversight) after the loved one is incapacitated, the court will require you to report all use of resources for your loved one. Guardianship requires a healthcare provider’s input. Guardianship requires attorney oversight. Criminal background, financial background, responsibility, and conflict of interest will be evaluated.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, please know the importance of having a Power of Attorney. Guardianship will subject you to court requirements and attorney oversight. Please discuss wishes with loved ones. This will help to make sure everybody is on the same page. Knowledge is powerful and can protect your loved ones’ resources, especially when they cannot protect them as they once did. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager, serving as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She is excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous works, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, showcase her experiences and insights gained through her heartfelt caregiving journey.