We may be lucky to reach retirement, but that does not mean we will arrive there in good health. Some people develop mental conditions such as Alzheimer's or dementia either as an early-onset condition or one that affects them in their older years. These people may...
Obtaining a power of attorney for a parent with dementia
Receiving a dementia diagnosis for an elderly parent can be emotionally devastating. You and your family will have a lot of choices to make during this very difficult time, including who will make certain decisions for your parent. The process can feel confusing and...
Living wills and durable powers of attorney in Kentucky
A living will is a legal document that directs a person’s doctors and medical providers of her wishes after she becomes incapacitated or unable to communicate the health care she wants. A living will usually provides for a health care power of attorney. A power of...
When should you transfer power of attorney?
Because of the control that power of attorney can give your agent—the ability to make financial, medical, and legal decisions on your behalf—it is important to choose someone you can trust. However, if it has been some time since you made your estate plan, it might be...
Why do I need power of attorney if I’m married?
A huge part of estate planning is preparing for the unexpected. This includes what will happen to you and who will make decisions if you are unable to make them for yourself. That’s where your power of attorney steps in. What is power of attorney? Power of attorney is...
What is the difference between having guardianship and Power of Attorney?
As we age, many of us will begin to lose our memories, judgment and decision-making abilities. It can be one of the most heartbreaking parts of aging, both for the affected senior and his family. However, with careful planning, it is possible to ensure that you will...
What should I know about do-not-resuscitate orders?
A do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order provides essential information to medical professionals in the event you're unable to communicate. These orders are often controversial, as friends and family may disagree with the directives laid out by you personally. Here some of...
Should my power of attorney change as I age?
The purpose of a power of attorney (POA) is to appoint an agent to look after the best interests of an individual if they are unable to. This can apply to a durable power of attorney where the designated person (known as an Attorney-in-Fact) makes decisions regarding...