By Brenda Deschner, Certified Concierge Care Advisor
One of the most common questions I hear from families is, “Do I really need a Power of Attorney (POA)?” The answer is technically no—you’re not legally required to have one. However, I strongly recommend that you do, and here’s why.
Why You Need a Power of Attorney
Life is unpredictable. No one plans for a sudden heart attack, a fall that results in broken bones, or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Often, unexpected health events—like a stroke or a urinary tract infection—can rapidly worsen cognitive conditions.
Without a plan in place, your loved ones may be left making critical life-and-death decisions on your behalf. This puts them under immense pressure, especially when they’re unsure of your wishes. Even worse, without a POA, they won’t have access to your financial resources to cover care costs, leaving them scrambling to find solutions.
What Happens Without a Power of Attorney?
If you don’t have a POA, and you’re unable to make decisions for yourself, your spouse or children may have to navigate these choices alone. For those without a spouse or living children, the situation becomes even more complicated.
In these cases, the state may appoint a guardian to manage your care, finances, and living arrangements. While guardians act with your best interests in mind, this removes your ability to choose where and how you receive care. Important decisions—like whether you live at home, in an independent living community in Washington, or in a care community—will be made by someone else.
The Benefits of Having a Power of Attorney
With a POA, you ensure that someone you trust is empowered to make decisions about your health, care, and finances. They’ll be guided by the directives you outline in your POA, meaning your wishes will be respected—even if you’re unable to express them.
A POA also alleviates the emotional and financial burden on your loved ones. It gives them the ability to access necessary funds to arrange for the best care possible and removes the guesswork from critical decisions. In essence, having a POA is a gift you give to yourself and your family—a way to ensure peace of mind for everyone involved.
Take Action to Protect Your Future
If you haven’t already established a Power of Attorney, now is the time. Preparing these documents is an essential part of ensuring your wishes are honored and protecting your loved ones from unnecessary stress.
At Concierge Care Advisors, our senior care advisors are here to help you connect with Preferred Professionals who can assist with your legal planning; we can also find the best care options for your unique needs. Whether you’re exploring assisted living in Lynnwood, WA, evaluating nursing homes in Bellevue, WA, or seeking Renton assisted living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
We also provide support for families researching senior care in Bothell, 24-hour care in Bothell, or senior care options in Renton. If you’re considering assisted living in Lake Stevens or want to learn more about Normandy Park senior living communities, our advisors can connect you with personalized care solutions tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to start planning for the future, ensuring that your wishes—and your loved ones—are cared for.
