Two Things To Put Into Place Today

First of all you are awesome. You are awesome for taking the time to figure this out for you and your parents to avoid a lot of headache and possible heartache. This is the advice that you will be so glad you listened to and it’s pretty easy to get it into place. Ready?

When it comes to preparing for your aging parents' future, putting the right legal documents in place isn’t just important—it’s essential. These two documents can mean the difference between smooth decision-making and a stressful, time-consuming crisis. It’s a simple but powerful way to ensure their wishes are honored while also easing the burden of decision-making for you and your family.

Waiting until a crisis happens can leave you scrambling—dealing with medical emergencies, financial confusion, and legal roadblocks. Taking proactive steps now will save you time, energy, and unnecessary stress later. Believe me, dealing with financial institutions without Power of Attorney is beyond frustrating. Without it, they legally can’t even discuss your parent’s accounts with you, leaving you stuck and unable to help.

I had my mom be my model because I think she has the best smile!

Here are the first two essential documents every family should put in place:

1. Medical Power of Attorney (or Medical Directive)

A Medical Power of Attorney (POA) appoints someone to make medical decisions on your parent’s behalf if they are unable to do so. Different states may refer to it as a Medical Directive or Healthcare Proxy, but the purpose remains the same: ensuring that your parent’s healthcare choices are respected, even if they can’t communicate them.

This document allows the designated person—whether a family member, friend, or trusted advisor—to:

• Make medical decisions based on your parent’s wishes.

•  Decide on treatments and procedures in an emergency.

• Determine long-term care options, including hospital or in-home care.

• Speak with doctors and access medical records as needed.

Without this document, hospitals and doctors may not be able to consult family members regarding critical medical decisions, potentially leading to delays or conflicts in care.

2. Financial Power of Attorney

A Financial Power of Attorney (POA) designates someone to handle financial matters on your parent’s behalf if they become unable to do so. This can include paying bills, managing investments, handling banking transactions, and making financial decisions.

• Ensures bills are paid on time.

• Helps manage assets and financial accounts.

• Prevents financial mismanagement or fraud.

• Provides clarity on who is responsible for financial decisions.

This doesn’t have to be the same person as the Medical POA. If you have siblings, responsibilities can be divided to align with each person’s strengths—one handling medical decisions, another overseeing finances.

How to Set Up POAs

Accessing Legal Forms: Many states offer POA forms online, or you can use services like LegalZoom or Nolo to create them affordably.

When to Hire an Attorney: If your parents have a complex estate or unique needs, consulting an elder law attorney ensures the documents are legally sound and tailored to their situation.

Keep Copies Accessible: Make sure you and your designated POAs have easy access to the documents when needed.

Why This Matters

Putting these two essential documents in place now ensures that when difficult moments arise, you’re not left scrambling. It means decisions can be made smoothly, financial matters are handled responsibly, and—most importantly—your parent’s wishes are honored with clarity and respect.

✨ Taking action today is one of the greatest gifts you can give both your parents and yourself. ✨

I  hope you find this helpful, and please know you don’t have to figure this out alone. If you ever need support, I’m always here to help. The fastest way to reach me is on Instagram @BarbaraStratte, where I share daily tips and guidance.

If you want a clear, step-by-step guide to help you through every stage of this journey,

get my eBook: When Roles Reverse: A Roadmap for Caring for Aging Parents.

This eBook is packed with time-saving, practical advice that will help you:

• Know when and how to step in

• Have the hard conversations without tension or guilt

• Make a plan that respects their independence and ensures their care

• Avoid the stress of last-minute decisions

Get your copy here: When Roles Reverse

When the roles reverse, having a plan makes all the difference.

Take this in and receive this:

You are appreciated

You are needed

You are awesome

Big Hugs,

Barbara