Taking Care of Mom and Dad: Transferring Authority Conclusion

In this chapter, we've discussed the mechanics and strategies for transferring medical and financial authority from your parents to you...or another person watching over them. Most of the toughest decisions that you have to make in helping your parents will probably involve these issues.

There isn't any easy way for your parents to admit they need you to step in and manage their affairs -- and it's usually even harder for you to tell them that it's time. The kindest thing you can do for your parents is to make sure they only have to go through these transfers once. And you can do that by making sure the transfers you put in place are well-drafted and will withstand any challenges that other family members...or anyone else...might make.

Over the next few pages, I include two samples of power of attorney agreements and two samples of living wills. These are samples only, intended to provide you with a general knowledge of how the documents are structured and written. The specific laws of your state may require different language or form. Do not use these sample documents for any transfer without the advice and review of an attorney or eldercare specialist in your area.