What is a Power of Attorney (POA)?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else—called your agent or attorney-in-fact—the authority to act on your behalf. POAs are most commonly used for:
Financial matters: Paying bills, managing investments, filing taxes, buying or selling property.
Health care decisions: When specifically drafted as a health care power of attorney, your agent can make medical decisions if you're unable to do so yourself.
Types of POAs include:
Durable Power of Attorney: Remains effective if you become incapacitated.
Springing Power of Attorney: Becomes effective only when you become incapacitated.
General vs. Limited Power of Attorney: A general POA gives broad powers, while a limited POA restricts your agent to specific tasks or time periods.
What Is an Advance Directive?
An Advance Directive—sometimes called a living will—is a legal document that spells out your wishes for medical care if you become unable to communicate or make decisions due to illness or incapacity.
It typically covers:
Whether you want life-sustaining treatment like mechanical ventilation or feeding tubes.
Preferences about resuscitation (DNR orders).
Pain management and comfort care.
In some states, an advance directive may also appoint a health care proxy or agent, similar to a health care power of attorney, to ensure someone you trust carries out your wishes.
How They Work Together
Having both documents is important because they cover different needs. For example:
Your Advance Directive might state that you do not want to be kept alive on a ventilator.
Your Health Care POA ensures that someone you trust is legally authorized to speak to doctors and enforce that decision if you’re unable to.
Together, they give you control and peace of mind—your wishes are documented, and someone you trust is empowered to act for you.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
These documents aren’t just for the elderly or the seriously ill. A sudden accident or illness can happen at any age. Creating a Power of Attorney and Advance Directive now ensures your voice is heard, no matter what the future holds.
If you’re ready to get started or have questions about how these tools can protect you and your loved ones, our office is here to help.
Need Help With Planning?
We offer compassionate, clear guidance to help you create a plan that reflects your values and provides peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
