Age in Place Important Documents

Legal and Medical Documents for Aging in Place

Aging in place involves careful planning, and having the right legal and medical documents is crucial. Here’s a straightforward guide to essential documents you might need:

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order

Purpose: Indicates that you do not want CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
How to Obtain: Discuss with your doctor, have it signed by both you and your physician. Keep copies at home and with your healthcare proxy.

Durable Power of Attorney (POA) for Healthcare

Purpose: Designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot.
How to Obtain: Work with an attorney to draft this document. Ensure the designated person understands your wishes.

Living Will

Purpose: Provides instructions about the types of medical treatment you want or do not want if you are seriously ill and unable to communicate.
How to Obtain: Created with an attorney’s help or through state-provided forms.

Durable Power of Attorney (POA) for Finances

Purpose: Authorizes someone to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated.
How to Obtain: An attorney can help draft this document to meet your state’s requirements.

Advance Healthcare Directive

Purpose: Combines the living will and durable power of attorney for healthcare into one document.
How to Obtain: Can be created with an attorney or by using state-specific forms.

HIPAA Authorization

Purpose: Allows your designated healthcare proxy to access your medical records and communicate with your healthcare providers.
How to Obtain: Forms are available from your healthcare provider or attorney.

POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)

Purpose: Outlines a plan of care reflecting your wishes concerning end-of-life treatments.
How to Obtain: Completed with your physician and kept accessible at home.

Will or Trust

Purpose: Specifies how your assets should be distributed after your death and helps manage your estate.
How to Obtain: Consult an attorney to draft a will or set up a trust.

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