Planning Ahead -- An Overview
Introduction
If you're like most people, you aren't eager to spend time thinking about what would happen if you became unable to take care of yourself because of illness, an accident or advanced age. It can be just as difficult to contemplate what would happen if a loved one, perhaps an aging parent or an ailing partner, reaches that stage. But sometimes it's impossible to avoid these issues. You may find yourself wondering: Who would pay my bills and take care of my house if I got sick? How would doctors know what kind of medical care I want to receive if I were hurt in an accident and couldn't tell them myself? Who's going to take care of mom's finances when her Alzheimer's disease grows worse?
If you don't do at least a little bit of planning -- naming someone you trust to direct your medical care and handle your finances -- these personal matters could wind up in the hands of doctors or in front of courts who may know very little about what you would prefer. It's far better to spend a few hours completing the legal documents that will make your wishes clear.
As you think about your preferences for healthcare and property management, you may be surprised by the range of concerns that arise. In addition to practical and financial considerations, there will surely be emotional aspects to the choices you make. Your own feelings, values and personal relationships will shape many of your decisions. For many people, making end-of-life medical decisions will also be a time for spiritual reflection and inquiry.
While this book can't address all of the practical, emotional and spiritual elements of planning for a time when you may need help with basic care, it can help you understand your options and ensure that there won't be legal complications if that time does come.
This chapter introduces the subject of incapacity and how to plan ahead for the time when help may be necessary. It explains the process and briefly describes the legal forms you will need. Chapters 2, 3 and 4 show you how to complete your forms.
You can also use this book if you are helping someone else to plan ahead and make the necessary documents. If you are using this book to help someone else, Section F of this chapter discusses some of the unique issues you may face.
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