First of all allow me to apologise. The subject matter of this piece is not particularly something that we all want to think about as it could involve us or a loved one. It is about making provision for that time in our or our loved ones lives when they may not be able to make financial and care decisions for themselves. It is about getting a power of attorney so that you or someone you trust or for some you love so that you can ensure that only the best choices are made for them or for yourself.
We all grow old and in many cases our mental capacity does not change. Sadly however with our aging population such issues as Parkinson, Alzheimer’s and dementia are on the rise and it is predicted that this trend will continue. The need for a Power of Attorney may hopefully never arise but it is reassuring to have it in place should the worse happen. There is no ongoing cost and it can be changed at any time. There are a few things to consider before you do it. You have to be over eighteen and be of sound mind and body. The person you want to be the person who will make the decisions has to be the same. You as the person deciding who the attorney is are called the donor.