Written by Carewell Team on Mon Aug 25 2025.
As a caregiver, you are likely an expert in navigating the legal and financial affairs of your loved one. From managing their medical decisions to paying their bills, you’ve become an advocate and an administrator. In the process, however, it’s all too easy to forget about your own needs and legal documents.
Just as a Power of Attorney (POA) is essential for the person you care for, having one for yourself is a crucial step in preparing for the unexpected. A personal POA ensures your own medical, financial, and legal affairs are in trusted hands should you ever be unable to manage them yourself.
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants a person of your choosing (the "agent" or "attorney-in-fact") the authority to act on your behalf. This is especially important for caregivers, who face the unique challenge of managing a loved one’s care while also balancing their own lives. If something were to happen to you, your POA would enable a trusted individual to step in and handle your personal affairs.
Caregivers, in particular, face a higher risk of stress-related health issues and physical injuries. Without your own legal documents in place, your personal life could be thrown into chaos if you were to become ill or incapacitated.
Who would pay your bills, manage your bank accounts, or handle your property if you were hospitalized?
Who would make medical decisions on your behalf if you couldn’t communicate them yourself?
What would happen to the person you care for if you were suddenly unable to provide care?
A Power of Attorney provides clear answers to these questions, giving you peace of mind that your affairs—and by extension, your caregiving responsibilities—would be handled smoothly.
While there are many types of legal documents, caregivers should focus on two key types of Durable Power of Attorney. A "durable" POA remains in effect even if you become incapacitated, which is a key distinction.
This document gives your chosen agent the authority to manage your financial affairs. This could include paying your bills, accessing your bank accounts, managing your investments, or even selling property. It ensures your financial responsibilities are taken care of, allowing your family to focus on your recovery without the added stress of legal and financial chaos.
Also known as a healthcare proxy or an advanced directive, this document allows your agent to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. This includes decisions about treatment, surgeries, and end-of-life care. It’s essential to have an open conversation with your chosen agent about your wishes so they can advocate for your care effectively.
Securing your own legal documents is a vital act of self-care. It protects not only your own interests but also provides clarity for your family and loved ones. While the process may seem daunting, it’s a straightforward way to plan for the future.
We encourage you to speak with an attorney specializing in estate planning to get your own legal documents in order. The peace of mind you gain by preparing for the unexpected is invaluable.
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