A power of attorney is simply a
directive that names someone you trust to act as your agent in the event that
you are unable to speak for yourself. A
medical power of attorney, also called an “advance directive,” names someone to
specifically act on your behalf in regards to any medical matters.
It is important to have a medical
power of attorney, especially if you have recently been diagnosed with
Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the
kinds of medical decisions covered by a power of attorney for health care
includes: doctors and health care providers, types of treatment, and care facilities. The designated medical power
of attorney may also need to make some end-of-life decisions such as issuing a “do
not resuscitate” (DNR) order or not consenting to a feeding tube when a person
reaches the later stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
The website, WebMD suggests that a
person entrusted to be your medical power of attorney should be someone “who is
not intimidated by medical professionals and is willing to ask challenging
questions,” They also add that the
person needs to be able to put aside their own feeling about a medical option
and be ready to carry out your wishes.
Drawing up a legal power of attorney
for health care does not require an attorney, and if it is appropriate, the
same person can be named as your financial and medical power of attorney. As forms are state-specific, be sure to use
the right form for your state. Once you have filled it out, it will probably
need to be witnessed, and in some cases may also need to be notarized. When you have completed the process, let your
family and anyone else involved in your care, including your doctor and
hospital, have a copy of the form.
MorningStar at Arrowhead represents
the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value,
to invest.” We have built our foundation
on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to
serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To
experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us
to schedule a tour.Sources:
alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-legal-documents.asp
webmd.com/palliative-care/advance-directives-medical-power-attorney
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