Designating Your Trusted Decision-Makers Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Planning for Your Future: Part 3 Plan for your future by identifying key decision-makers in your life who you trust the most. Take the time to document your choices in writing and open a dialogue to discussing the details with your loved ones. Communicating your preferences will ease the process for your family down the road when you may no longer be able to make your own choices due to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Identify a Health Care Proxy A Health Care Proxy is someone who can make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This decision-maker should be someone who understands and respects the level of health care intervention you would prefer to receive. A Health Care Proxy is particularly helpful if you’re incapacitated or if your memory issues progress suddenly. Family members who work in the healthcare field are typically strong candidates for this role because of their knowledge of medical terminology and procedures. Document your preferences in writing before a health crisis occurs in order to prepare your Health Care Proxy for how to communicate with medical personnel with your best interests in mind. Choose a Power of Attorney As you age, you may reach a point when you need assistance making choices about finances. There might be someone who you appreciate acting on your behalf unofficially, but it’s often a good idea to put this authority into place by legally giving them Power of Attorney. Designating a Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the authority to legally make decisions on your behalf when you are no longer able to. A Power of Attorney should be a decision-maker that you are confident will act on your financial wishes with the best intentions. Note: Power of Attorney laws are different in every state. If you have legal questions, contact a lawyer for professional assistance. Willow River is Here to Help At Willow River, we understand the challenges that Alzheimer’s and dementia can bring. If you have questions or need help, Willow River has the answers and resources you need. Call Willow River Senior Living at 888-546-1886 or contact us through our website to start the conversation today. These recommendations are not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state to state, so be sure to consult with a legal professional conversant in the relevant state requirements for your personal situation.