Q: I need to get power of attorney for my mother; to cover medical, financial, and business. This is at her request.
My mother is 92 years old, and she is beginning to exhibit behaviors consistent with Alzheimer's and dementia. This is according to her physician. I have not the foggiest idea how to proceed.
A: You need at least two documents: (1) a durable power of attorney for general financial matters; and (2) a durable power of attorney for healthcare decisions. They should not be one document--the healthcare POA should be separate. Your mother should also have a will if she doesn't have one, as well as an "advance directive" (also known as a "living will" but refers to end of life decisions).
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