How to be in charge of a sick parent

[liljenn]

New Here-Need Help

[swampcritter]

Different states have different requirements for these forms. As an example, when Swampy became his aunt's medical POA the forms had to be signed by two witnesses and the notary had to know us all. However, for financial, no extra witnesses were required.

Its easiest -- though by no means cheapest -- to get the forms drawn up by an attorney in the state where the person lives.

If you get financial POA, take it over to the bank and let them make a copy. They will need that form on file if you need to do any banking transactions.

On the medical side, be certain to discuss living will provisions with your loved one. Some forms have a nice table that has the intersection of treatments and conditions, this permits you to ask questions in an organized way.


Finally, remember that POA is POA, not Guardianship. You cannot force a decision on someone with POA, only guide them and help them.

Medhelp has a caregiver's forum. It would be nice if that forum were more active, as many of us end up being caregiviers.

[wannabefree330]

hey guys, i'm new to the site but can offer tips on caring for ill or elderly.  I am a nurse and want to help however I can.  Also, once the paperwork is finished and all forms filled out, the hospitals I have worked at have a Notary in the hospital who will do it for free.  Otherwise, you can go to your bank for a small fee have it notarized.  Most of these forms (or generic ones at least) can prob be downloaded from the internet.  My suggestion, make several copies.  keep the original in a safe place.

[Jacqui805]

If you have any questions related to care, shoot 'em to me...I have alot of experience caring for the elderly...

[tzt2lady]

Ask drs all questions that pop into your mind.  It will be overwhelming.  I cared for my mom for 6 years.  When they said to crush her pills, i sat with a mirror and razor blade chopping them up dope-fiend style when a home nurse (after weeks) walked in and with a surprised look on her face told me there was a pill crusher I could purchase at walgreens.   I found there were cheaper bed pads/diapers at a medical supply store.   It was all so difficult, so much people assume we know when we are not nurses, just ordinary folks.  Also, PLEASE get into a support group.  I wish I would have, maybe I wouldn't have eventually turned to pain pills to numb the pain.

[122 Tactical Fighter Group]

All of the decent hospitals anymore offer both power of attorneys and living wills and they also have staff to help you make decisions and to witness those documents - - it really does save the hospital money and it makes it easier for the attending physician to function also - you dont need to spend a ton of money unless you have an estate like Warren Buffett!!! These medical Pros can also frequently lend good advice on strategies.....

[dominosarah]

Yep just make sure they are notorized.  We paid 75.00 to the lawyer to draw those papers up.  

[flmagi]

P.S. Her signature to these forms should be noterized or they could be contested in court.

[flmagi]

Power Of Attorney forms for while she is alive. Medical Power of Attorney and also Financial Power of Attorney. I beleive these can be purchased at any office supply store.
Also a living will and assignment of a trustee in the event of her death.

[confused456]

My sister is a para-legal....what kind of advice exactly?

[NautyOne]

in the comment box as you see here......you have to tell what you situation is.....it might be a little slow over the next day or so ....keep checking in......

good luck.......

guys......she needs a little legal advice I know someone can help...

Nauty..........