If you are the family caregiver of a senior loved one, there are several legal documents you need to consider. Oshkosh senior care providers discuss a few important legal papers caregivers need to know about.
Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney allows family caregivers to act on behalf of their senior loved ones when they become incompetent to act on their own. The document allows you to control money, sign legal contracts, sell real estate, and do many other things on behalf of your loved one. Unlike a power of attorney, a durable power of attorney gives you rights only in certain areas.
Conservatorship
If your senior loved one cannot make any decisions for him or herself, you can ask a judge to appoint you as a conservator. This document requires you to look after his or her basic care. Every decision you make in this regard must be approved by the court.
Living Will
You may want to encourage your loved one to complete a living will. This document allows seniors to decide whether or not they want to be put on life support if they cannot speak for themselves. This document is also known as an Advance Health Care Directive Form. It’s important to note that a living will is not needed if you are the conservator or have durable power of attorney.
Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate (DNR/DNI) Order
These orders can be combined with the living will, if desired. This document tells the medical team if the senior wants CPR or other rescue breathing techniques should he or she stop breathing.
If you need time to prepare an important legal document, but you can’t leave your senior loved one alone at home, call Senior Stride Home Care. We offer a range of customized senior care plans to help boost your loved one’s health and wellbeing while you tend to other important work. For high-quality and experienced respite and live-in caregivers in Oshkosh, get in touch with one of our friendly Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.