Should I file a power of attorney or a guardianship?

A Power of Attorney is given to you (you don't file for it)-- and if your parents have not given durable PoA to you already, you should ask them to do so asap. Make sure the PoA is DURABLE; that's important. Try to avoid filing for guardianship as it is not only costly, it takes away all their civil rights; and you don't want to do that unless you have absolutely no other choice. Guardianship abuse is a growing problem nationally.

Now is the time for you to have serious talks with your parents so you know exactly what they want you to do for them as well as what they don't want.

POA will be sufficient to allow you to get information. Get several "original" copies -- with signatures notarized on each copy. You may need to send them to several places, although some will accept a copy or a fax.

Since your dad is getting worse rapidly ask his doctor if he is eligible for hospice care, or call a hospice organization directly. That can be a great comfort to Dad and to you and Mom.

njlee 1356 Yes you should get P.O.A. if your father and mother are willing to sign the papers there is a lot of info on this site about P.O.A. papers. Without these papers your hands are tied. If you can't do this guardianship is costly and timely I have heard from others.