When your parents are diagnosed with dementia, planning for the future becomes a priority. One of the most critical steps is establishing power of attorney (POA). This legal tool allows you to make decisions on their behalf, especially regarding their healthcare and finances, when they can no longer. Knowing how to get power of attorney for elderly parent with dementia can help you protect their interests and make sure that their needs are met as the condition progresses.
Dementia gradually reduces your loved one’s ability to make decisions for themselves. Therefore, establishing a power of attorney early on can ensure their wishes are respected and allow you to step in when needed. But what exactly is a power of attorney and how do you secure it for a parent with dementia? This guide will walk you through the process.
What Is the Power of Attorney?
Power of attorney is a legal document that grants you the authority to act on behalf of your parents in decision-making processes. The person who gives this authority is known as the “principal,” and the person who receives it is the “agent.” Establishing a power of attorney while they are still capable of doing so helps guarantee that their wishes are honored and that their financial and healthcare needs are met without unnecessary legal complications.
The Right Time to Secure Power of Attorney
The best time to establish power of attorney is as early as possible after a dementia diagnosis. Early-stage dementia still allows most individuals to understand what they are signing and the implications of the document. This makes it an ideal time for both you and your parents to have open discussions about their future, their preferences and the responsibilities of the person who will be granted power of attorney.
Types of Power of Attorney
There are different types of power of attorney, each serving specific needs. When setting up power of attorney for a parent with dementia, two types are particularly relevant:
- Durable Power of Attorney: This is the most common type of POA for older adults with dementia. A durable power of attorney remains effective even if your parent becomes mentally incapacitated. It allows you to handle your parent’s healthcare and financial decisions for as long as necessary.
- Healthcare Power of Attorney: This type of POA allows you to make medical decisions on your parents’ behalf. This can include choices about treatments, medications and care plans. It is vital to make sure your parent’s wishes regarding their health and medical care are respected.
- Financial Power of Attorney: This type gives you the authority to manage your parent’s finances, pay bills, manage property and handle financial transactions. This is particularly important as dementia often affects your parent’s ability to manage their money or remember to pay for important services.
It is possible to have both types of power of attorney, splitting the duties between different people if desired. For example, one person may manage financial decisions while another handles healthcare. This can help balance the responsibility and guarantee each aspect of care is given proper attention.
How to Get Power of Attorney for Elderly Parent with Dementia: Choose the Right Agent
The role of the agent, or the person granted power of attorney, is significant. This person will be responsible for making major decisions that affect your parent’s life and wellbeing. Therefore, it is important to choose someone who is trustworthy, organized and willing to take on the responsibilities.
In most cases, the agent is a close family member, often a spouse or adult child. However, any adult whom your parents trust can be appointed. It is essential that the agent understands the importance of the role and is willing to act in the best interest of your parents, even when making tough decisions.
How to Legally Establish Power of Attorney
The process of establishing power of attorney involves several steps:
- Meet with an Attorney: It’s crucial to work with an elder law attorney who is experienced in handling dementia-related issues. They will guide you through the legal process and make sure the documents are properly drafted and executed according to the law in your state.
- Prepare the Documents: The attorney will help you prepare the necessary documents. In most states, these documents need to be signed by your parents, witnessed and in some cases notarized.
- Discuss the Terms: Before your parents sign the documents, it’s important to go over the terms of the power of attorney and make sure they understand what they are signing. The attorney can assist in explaining how the POA will work and what decisions the agent will be able to make on their behalf.
- Execute the Documents: Once the documents are signed, they become legally binding. Make sure that copies of the documents are stored safely and accessible to the agent.
Dealing with Mid-to-Late Stage Dementia
If your parent has progressed to mid or late-stage dementia and can no longer understand what they are signing, the power of attorney process becomes more complex. In these cases, you may need to go to court to establish either a conservatorship or guardianship.
A conservatorship grants you the authority to manage your parent’s financial affairs, while a guardianship gives you the power to make healthcare decisions. Both require a judge’s approval and typically involve filing paperwork with the court, attending a hearing and providing evidence that your parent is no longer capable of making their own decisions.
Communicating with Your Parent
Talking to your parents about power of attorney can be a delicate conversation. It’s essential to approach the subject with sensitivity, focusing on how the document will protect their interests and ensure their wishes are honored. Involving them in the decision-making process as much as possible can help them feel more in control.
Accessing Resources and Support
Caring for a parent with dementia can feel overwhelming at times, but resources are available to support you through the process. Legal experts, healthcare professionals and dementia care specialists can provide guidance on managing power of attorney and other aspects of your parent’s care.
At our Assisted Living community, we offer services and amenities that help families navigate the challenges of dementia care. Our activity calendar includes events and educational sessions that can provide additional support and resources as you manage your loved one’s care.
Reach out to us today to learn how we can support you and your family during this challenging time.
