Making end-of-life decisions isn’t easy but it’s something we all should do, and with the COVID-19 pandemic still raging on, some people are being forced to make difficult decisions. Having a healthcare power of attorney and advance directive can make end of life planning go smoother. As an experienced Carroll County estate planning law firm, we wanted to take some time today to talk about why you should get an advanced directive.
What is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a plan that you make in case you ever lose the ability to make medical decisions for yourself. It goes along with a Healthcare Power of Attorney, which allows someone you’ve named to make your medical decisions and to communicate those decisions to your medical team. (To learn more about how advance directives work, contact a professional estate planning attorney.)
Do Young People Need a Healthcare POA and Advance Directive?
Many young and healthy people feel they don’t need these documents, but an accident or illness can strike at any time. These documents are even more important for young people because of the issues around the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only can someone young and healthy end up in a hospital, but due to restrictions on visitors, if there is no Healthcare Power of Attorney in place, your family members may have trouble getting in to see you. For this reason, we recommend that anyone aged 18 and over have a Healthcare Power of Attorney and advance directive drawn up.
How Has COVID-19 Affected Advance Directives?
COVID-19 is a fast-acting disease that can have severe consequences. Some of those who are affected can deteriorate rapidly, and due to the respiratory problems from COVID-19, some people may end up on artificial life support. Now more than ever, it is important for everyone to be prepared for this worst case scenario– an advance directive will do that.
Work with a Professional Carroll County Estate Planning Lawyer
Here at DK Rus Law, we’ve been providing Carroll County with our estate planning services for years. If you have questions about getting a healthcare power of attorney and advance directive, or a financial power of attorney, give us a call.
