The difference between power of attorney and guardianship is a common question asked by adult children. Both roles share a duty to provide care and oversight of medical care and health.
Talking about death makes most of us uncomfortable, so we don't plan for it. That's a big mistake, because if you don't have an end-of-life plan, your state's laws decide who gets everything you own.
An Advance Directive/Living Will is that type of document. It provides authorization for the termination of life support. It is a document that only you can sign – you cannot delegate the power to make that decision.
More than likely, most people may not want to envision a time spent in court, arguing with siblings and other family members, or fighting with financial institutions and health providers to uphold end-of-life wishes and the management of personal assets.
We talked about the various things you should think about and get in order, so that if ‘something happens’ your loved ones don’t have to do a frantic search for your important information.