Power of Attorney

A power of attorney is a legal document that enables someone to act on your behalf or make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.

For a variety of reasons, you might want someone to make decisions on your behalf. It might be either temporary or ongoing. Temporary causes can include needing assistance with daily duties like paying bills while you’re in the hospital. If you have been diagnosed with dementia and will no longer be able to make decisions for yourself, these could be longer-term reasons.

The ability to make or communicate decisions at the appropriate time indicates that you have mental capacity. You must understand the decision that must be made, the reason for the decision, and the anticipated results.

power of attorney comes in a variety of forms.

Ordinary – Covers financial issues – Good for a short time or if you have trouble getting out.

Lasting –  takes effect if you lose the ability to make decisions or the desire to do so. It covers financial or health and care aspects.

Lasting Power of Attorney replaced Enduring Power of Attorney in October 2007, however, documents signed before this date remain in effect.