The Importance of Planning for the Unexpected

The sudden rise of the coronavirus, COVID-19, has left many unprepared and confused. There are numerous reports of shortages of antibacterial hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and even toilet paper. While we can’t predict when something like COVID-19 might strike, we can take steps to prepare for an unexpected crisis to help reduce the stress on ourselves and family members.

Designate a family member who will check on elderly relatives. Make sure everyone knows who will be responsible for checking in with an elderly loved one each day. Also set up a process for notifying other family members of an elderly loved one's condition – this may including sending an email, text messaging, or phone calls. The method is not as important as agreeing to a process and sticking to it so all family members stay informed.

Seek medical advice in the event of a health care crisis. There has been a great deal of reporting about COVID-19, and some of it has been inconsistent. Reach out to your trusted medical team to understand what you and your loved ones should be doing in this, or any, health care crisis.

Make sure someone knows how to pay your bills. In case of your incapacity, this type of power can be provided to an agent under a financial power of attorney. Powers of attorney can include numerous powers so it is critical to talk with legal counsel before signing any type of legal document that gives someone else authority over your finances.

Be sure there is an accurate list of medical prescriptions readily available in your home. If you become ill, it is important that someone knows the medicines you take and the dosage. Keep this in your home where others can find it, and make sure the list is dated, noting any time it is updated. Many of us assume that our doctor has an updated prescription list, but if you are seeing multiple specialists, that may not be true.

Designate someone you trust to make medical decisions for you. This should not be a form that is downloaded from the internet. In the event that you were to become incapacitated, it is important to have someone designated as your health care power of attorney for deciding what type of treatment you want, where you want to live, and what should happen if you have a terminal illness. There are serious topics that should be considered carefully, then translated into a proper legal document.

Planning for an unexpected health care or financial crisis can help relieve a great deal of stress for you and your family. We would welcome the opportunity to help you come up with a plan that works for you.

At Elder Law of Omaha, we provide a “Health Care Decision Making Package” which includes not only a health care power of attorney but also a living will and HIPAA document. These documents allow you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment during times of illness.

Contact us today at (402) 614-6400 to schedule your free initial phone or video conferencing attorney consultation.