Many families are not prepared to deal with the legal and financial issues of their loved one. It is critical to have these documents in place prior to a life changing crisis. Here is an overview of six medical, legal, and financial planning documents:
Medical Documents
- Living Will-Describes and instructs how the individual wants end-of-life health care managed.
- Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care-Gives a designated person the authority to make health care decisions on behalf of an individual.
- Do Not Resuscitate Form-Instructs health care professionals not to perform CPR in case of stopped heart or stopped breathing.
Legal/Financial Documents
- Will-Indicates how a person’s assets and estate will be distributed among beneficiaries after his or her death.
- Durable Power of Attorney for Finances-Gives a designated person the authority to make legal/financial decisions on behalf of the person who is compromised.
- Living Trust-Gives a designated person (trustee) the authority to hold and distribute property and funds for the person compromised.
Facing a life changing crisis can be an emotional roller coaster for many families. A legal expert or elder attorney can assist with addressing and completing the necessary end-of-life documents. Implementing these important Advance directives can help families address the tough decisions about future treatment, caregiving concerns, and financial arrangements.
