The holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family while creating lasting memories, for children and aging parents alike. There are always the usual stresses that arise this time of year, like making sure gifts are bought, meals are sorted, and activities are planned to keep everyone happy. However, […]
Transferring power of attorney when your parent has Alzheimer’s can be a sticky situation. Given the nature of the disease, your parent may not realize that their ability to make smart decisions is at risk because Alzheimer’s causes progressive mental deterioration in the patient. For those that are unsure about initiating this process, it is important to understand the basics first. A power of attorney is a legal document used by individuals who wish to have someone act on their behalf in making decisions, without requiring the individual’s active participation. When it becomes necessary to transfer power of attorney for your parent, you will need to explain to your parent that it is in their best interest.
Why should you transfer power of attorney when your parent has Alzheimer’s?
Because Alzheimer’s disease effects the brain, those diagnosed are often reach a point where they are unable to make their own smart and effective decisions. This can cause specific issues when the patient or individual is faced with financial or health care related decisions. If your parent agrees to, transfer the power of attorney, it will allow you to make these decisions once they are no longer able to.
It is important to recognize the signs early, to avoid any complications with the process. Legally, your parent must give lawful consent to signing these legal documents. Thus, if you wait until the disease progresses, it may be too late if they are no longer able to sign such legal documents.
By keeping a watchful eye on your parent’s cognitive abilities and speaking with their physician on a regular basis, you will be better able to recognize the early signs that it may be time to transfer the power of attorney. This can be particularly challenging if you do not live nearby your aging parent and you are unable to see them on a regular basis.
How do I transfer the power of attorney?
After deciding it is time, you must then follow the necessary steps to expedite the process.
There are many steps to legally transfer the power of attorney. The first, is to find an elderly care attorney near you. You may even want to speak with or interview a few to find someone you are comfortable working with. From there, the attorney will advise you on the next steps and help you along the way.
Once the power of attorney has been transferred, you will be able to act on your loved one’s behalf to make decisions pertaining to their health, finances, and other legal matters.
Caring for a parent who has Alzheimer’s can be very difficult. Fortunately, there are many resources that can make living with Alzheimer’s easier for both you and your parent. At Paradise Living Centers, we are experts in Alzheimer’s care and are happy to answer any additional questions or address any concerns you might have. Visit our website or call us at (480)878-4112 for more information.
