Being prepared in the time of COVID:

In the next three posts, I share simple and effective steps to prepare yourself for Coronavirus specific decision making “just in case.”

Step One: Complete a Power of Attorney form for healthcare.

What is it? A document that designates a person or persons who will make medical decisions for you if you are sick and unable to make them for yourself. Any person over 18 should have one,

Why do it? Friends, I’ve helped a lot of families make medical decisions for people they love. In the best possible circumstances it’s hard to do, and it’s much harder when families disagree or feel confused. Designating a power of attorney is easy to do (one signature!) and saves a lot of time and heartache.

Is it particularly important for COVID 19? Yes. People of all ages are getting sick with COVID 19 and symptoms can worsen quickly. If they need a breathing machine, they are sedated and unable to talk. 

What happens if you get sick with coronavirus and don’t designate a power of attorney? Good question. Your state will default medical decision making to your legal next of kin. Maybe your legal next of kin is the person you would designate anyway. Good for you! But maybe you and your legal next of kin are estranged, or embroiled in a bitter divorce. Not so good for you.

Any other benefits? Designating power of attorney is your opportunity to think through common scenarios, get really clear on what you want and don’t want, and share that with your representative. You can make sure the person you want to voice your choices is the person who will.
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If you haven’t yet designated a Power of Attorney or need to revise your choice, I can help. Click here to schedule a free 20 minute “Being Prepared in the time of COVID virtual paperwork, planning and support services” consultation today.