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.
If you or a family member is suffering
from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it is important to have a
medical power of attorney. 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 of Sparks’ unique mission
statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior
communities. Committed to creating a
true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on
honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to
serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.
Sources:
alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-legal-documents.asp
webmd.com/palliative-care/advance-directives-medical-power-attorney
No comments:
Post a Comment