How to Choose a Medical Power of Attorney

 Posted on December 03, 2024 in Estate Planning and Probate

When you are creating important documents like your living will and medical powers of attorney, you might hear a lot of jokes about someone "pulling the plug on you." Some people worry about the possibility of a family member giving up too soon and stopping treatment. Other people, especially those who are already becoming elderly, might worry about the opposite - that a family member will continue life-prolonging care long after you have lost all quality of life and would have preferred to be allowed to pass away peacefully. Who you choose as your medical power of attorney should depend on your personal goals, hopes, and fears. An experienced San Antonio, TX estate planning attorney should help you finalize these documents.

Why a Living Will is Important for Everyone 

No matter how much you trust your medical POA to carry out your wishes, a living will or advance medical directive is absolutely necessary. This document instructs your doctors directly regarding what type of care you would and would not accept if you could no longer speak for yourself. It can work to limit the decisions your POA could or could not make. This document may also help to guide your POA if they are struggling with a decision, as it clearly sets out your wishes.

Choosing a POA if You Want All Possible Life-Prolonging Care 

If your preference would be to be kept alive as long as possible, even if the treatments would be uncomfortable and you cannot fully recover, an immediate family member would likely be the best choice. A close relative you share a loving relationship with is generally the least likely to withdraw care earlier than you would want. You should try to choose someone who has the skills needed to advocate for you at the hospital.

Choosing a POA When You Prioritize Quality of Life and a Peaceful Passing 

Many people fear being kept alive by artificial means when they no longer have an acceptable quality of life and would prefer for care to be withdrawn before they have suffered too much. If this describes you, you may want to consider choosing someone who is not an immediate family member and will not be prone to emotional decision-making. Good alternative choices include a similarly-aged friend, a slightly more distant family member like a grandchild or cousin, or someone who has experience working with elderly patients in a hospital, nursing home, or hospice setting.

Contact a San Antonio, TX Medical Planning Lawyer 

If you are planning for your future medical care, Geoff Mayfield, Attorney at Law can help. Experienced Bexar County, TX estate planning attorney Geoff Mayfield can help with both medical and financial planning. Contact us at 210-535-0870 for a complimentary consultation.