Having an Advanced Healthcare Directive (“AHCD”) is not only recommended for elder adults and those facing physical challenges, but for everyone, young or old, healthy or sick.  An AHCD allows you to direct an agent as to precisely what  medical treatment–or lack of treatment-- should be taken if you were to become incapacitated and unable to make the decisions for yourself.  Not only can you appoint the agent (attorney-in-fact) you trust to enforce the guidelines you set forth in your AHDC, it also allows you to instruct specific healthcare treatments, organ donations and even funeral arrangements.  Tragedy, sickness and disease has no age limit and preparing in advance is cost effective, can save a lot of headache, confusion and even disagreements that can arise between family members during such a stressful time–even families that never have strife.

    Creating a Power of Attorney is very simple and has plenty of benefits and advantages. This legal document allows you to give authorization to an individual, known as an agent (or attorney-in-fact), to mange your property and finances.  The agent can take care of everyday tasks on your behalf while you are away or unable to do so yourself.  It can last for a limited time and then expire or even a lifetime if you prefer.  If “durable,” this legal document allows the appointed individual to handle your property and finances if you were to ever become incapacitated or incompetent.