Medical Power of Attormey

[SparkleM]

We have financial power of attorney for mother with early stages of Alzheimer’s. At the time of getting financial power of Attorney (me and siblings) we didn’t get the medical one. As time has gone on though I’ve wondered if it’s something we might regret later down the line - eg when she loses more capacity. Just wanting advice from people who’ve been there really - have you found having it useful, did you not have it then regretted it?

I found it useful as both Mum and Step-dad had living wills as well as both POAs. My mum had severe Altziemers and needed an advocate. Six months after she died, stepdad became seriously Ill. He only wanted to join her so hospital agreed That he would not go to ICU.

Possibly they might have had the same outcome without the POA, but there did seem to be a sense of relief from hospital staff when I said I had it.

As a nurse I fully recommend to get POA for health care decisions and finances. Otherwise all healthcare decisions will be made in 'best interests' of the patient.