My mom, 94, is beginning to act passive and helpless after being fairly independent for most of her life. I can NOT be her POA, though I am her Medical person for decisions. I’m ok with that, but not finances. I don't think any other family member will do it either. Her cognitive skills are excellent so far, but I know she ought to plan for this.
Thanks in advance.
2 Answers
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It's a tough situation. If I found myself in that situation, since I have no siblings nor children, and the cousins that I knew well are older then me and live out of state, I probably would ask my Elder Law Attorney for suggestions, or hire my CPA.
It is a great way to have your wishes honored because they go only by your written end of life documents and not feelings.
She can assign Financial PoA to an attorney if she is still of sound mind. I'm not quite sure what happens if she has a medical PoA and no financial PoA. That would make a challenging task more difficult. If no PoA is assigned, the county will eventually become her guardian and will assume all responsibilities but it will be a train wreck before coming to that point.
If she seems more passive and helpless lately she is most likely experiencing a cognitive or physical issue. Maybe there are other options for her so hoping others will post their insights for you.
I advised my sister, only other family, to look into this with her. She lives out of state. Sis didn’t sound excited at the prospect, but has not said a definite no.
My mom is depressed, and has a history of denial and passivity. She’s done nothing to address the issue of POA. Family dynamics are dysfunctional. I think she hopes I’ll just take it over when the need arises. Of note, her will is made, with all remaining assets to go to my sister. In past they found me to be a poor money manager. Nowadays, I really struggle to stay on top of my own finances, planning, and life management, because of my own physical and emotional issues.
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