Saturday, 15 February 2025
Your Power of Attorney should be someone you trust. Life can be unpredictable, so planning ahead is a smart way to take care of yourself and the people you love. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right person to be your Power of Attorney (POA). A POA is someone who can make decisions for you if you’re unable to, like handling money, legal matters, or healthcare. Here’s why picking the right person is so important.
You Need Someone You Can Trust
Your POA will have access to private information, like your finances and medical records. They’ll also make big decisions about your care. That’s why you need to pick someone you trust completely—someone who will always do what’s best for you, even if it’s hard.
They Should Be Responsible
The right POA needs to be organized and able to handle tough situations. They might need to talk to doctors, lawyers, or banks. If they’re not good at staying calm and making decisions, they could struggle when you need them most.
They Need to Know What You Want
Your POA should understand what’s important to you. Do you want to take medical risks, or would you prefer a safer option? What would you want if things got really serious? Talk to them ahead of time so they know how to make the decisions you would want.
Living Nearby Helps
It can be helpful if your POA lives close by, especially if they need to act quickly in an emergency. While this isn’t always necessary, it’s something to think about.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Family
You don’t have to choose a family member as your POA. Sometimes, a close friend or a trusted professional might be a better choice. What matters most is that they can handle the responsibility and follow your wishes.
Why It Matters
Choosing the right POA gives you and your loved ones peace of mind. The right person will respect your choices and make decisions with your best interests in mind. Take your time to pick someone you trust, and make sure to talk to them about what you want.
Planning ahead can’t stop life’s surprises, but it can help you feel ready for them. With the right POA, you’ll know someone has your back when it matters most.
