A nephew of a former client recently reached out, saying: “I need a Power of Attorney; my aunt said you can help me.” I asked for more information and learned that his mother was living in Assisted Living, and he was already her Representative Payee for Social Security. As her Representative Payee, he could legally manage her Social Security income, so he didn’t need a financial Power of Attorney for this purpose.
What he actually needed was related to health care decisions. He explained that the nurse at the facility wanted him to have authorization to approve medication. For this, what he required was not a financial Power of Attorney but an Advance Health Care Directive. This document gives someone the legal authority to make health care decisions on behalf of another person when they are unable to do so themselves. It’s a common mix-up, but it’s important to use the correct document for the situation. A quick internet search might have led him to the wrong solution.
He also shared that his mother’s dementia was advancing, and he wasn’t sure how to get her to sign the document. I gathered the necessary details to prepare the document and scheduled an appointment to assist with the signing. While it may seem straightforward, ensuring the document is completed and signed correctly requires expertise, especially when dealing with advanced dementia.
If you have a loved one who needs help with medical or financial decision-making, give me a call. I can guide you through the process and ensure everything is handled properly.
