The COVID-19 pandemic is a difficult time in our lives. With social distancing as the norm, and so much uncertainty, stress levels have risen. In the process however, we are learning something important about ourselves. No doubt this will prove useful in the future.
As for the present, let’s put the time allotted to good use and ensure our personal affairs are in order. Hopefully you have been following the advice in earlier emails and have taken action on the medical and financial tips we suggested.
Today we will offer tips related to LEGAL documents.
For example, regarding your legal documents, have you prepared your:
- Personal and Financial Power of Attorney (POA)
- Last Will and Testament
- Advance Directives: Planning for Future Health Care Decisions (and/or a Living Will)
Have a conversation with and gain agreement to designate your Personal Representatives, and have a backup for the process of conducting your affairs.
It is advisable to store all of this critical information in a safe place, and provide a copy to your Personal Representative (s), or let them know where/how they can access the information when needed.
We highly recommend you seek professional legal advice in preparation and completion of these documents, including the use of a Notary.
Things to consider when preparing for that meeting:
- Do you want to be an organ donor?
- Do you want life-sustaining treatment, or not? (a conversation with your primary care can also be helpful to understand these decisions and repercussions of these decisions)
- What kind of care do you want?
- Address end of life issues
- What is important to you?
- Who do you want to represent you?
- Who do you want to consider as a beneficiary?
Our team is thinking of you, and hope you, your family and your clients are well. Keep in mind what the esteemed American poet Robert Frost wrote, “the best way out is always through”. We will get through this together!
We are here, and please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you during this fluid time of transition.
About The Option Group: Founded in 2010, The Option Group’s compassionate team of experienced Certified Life Care Managers serves families, their loved ones, medical professionals, and professional family advisors in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The firm understands the challenges of caring for an individual who needs assistance due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Their skilled providers possess over 100 years of combined experience navigating the healthcare maze and accessing hundreds of quality resources. The Option Group helps families spend quality time with their loved ones, providing clear choices that lead to better care. For more information, visit www.theoptiongroup.net or call 410-667-0266 (MD) or 717-287-9900 / 610-885-8899 (PA) / or 302-858-6449 (DE).