If you are considering giving Power of Attorney to a loved one, we understand that this may feel overwhelming. There are many considerations, including choosing someone you trust to carry out your wishes and conduct your affairs as you would want. Selecting the right attorney and making your wishes clear to them is an essential part of the Power of Attorney process and can help you move confidently forward with your life.
Addressing your concerns about giving Power of Attorney
Creating a Power of Attorney is essential for planning for the future. Life is unpredictable. At some point, you may need someone to make decisions for you and carry out actions on your behalf should you lose the capacity to do so yourself. A Power of Attorney provides peace of mind, but we understand that you may still be apprehensive. What if your attorney doesn’t know what to do? What if they do not follow your wishes? Concerns about Power of Attorney are typical. However, you can take steps to make the process straightforward for your attorney, providing them with clarity about their role.
Choosing the right person to be your attorney
Most people have an idea about who they wish to be their attorney. However, it is essential to consider your choice carefully. You should trust the person you choose to follow your wishes and have the common sense to manage your financial affairs and care confidently. You can also appoint more than one attorney. For example, you may have someone in mind who would be better at arranging everyday care and another who is better with financial decisions.
Discussing your wishes
We recommend raising the issue with your family and loved ones before making your Power of Attorney. They can then work with you to choose the best person for the role. In addition, they may raise concerns or issues you had not considered. Discussing the Power of Attorney with your loved ones is also an opportunity to clarify your wishes. You should discuss both financial matters and care matters. Care matters may be where you would like to live, what you eat, or the clothes you want to wear.
Setting out clearly how you would like your affairs managed
To give you additional peace of mind, you can also set out your wishes in a document known as an Advanced Statement. An Advanced Statement allows you to set out clear, written instructions. You may wish to include any wishes, preferences, values and beliefs about your future day-to-day care and medical care.
If you’re thinking about making a power of attorney, contact James today.
Note: This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.