December 14, 2022 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant
If your parent has been diagnosed with dementia, you may be wondering how to get power of attorney (POA). While it’s not an easy decision, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll need to decide if you want durable or non-durable POA.
Durable POA means that the power of attorney is valid even if your parent becomes incapacitated. Non-durable POA only lasts as long as your parent is able to make decisions for themselves. You’ll also need to choose whether you want general or limited POA.
General POA gives the person named in the document broad powers to make financial and medical decisions on behalf of your parent. Limited POA only allows them to make specific decisions that you’ve designated in advance.
Once you’ve decided which type of POA is right for your situation, you’ll need to fill out the proper paperwork.
This can usually be found online or at your local courthouse. Be sure to have several witnesses sign the document, as well as your parent if they are still able to do so. If not, a doctor will need to sign off on their mental competency.
- If your parent has been diagnosed with dementia, you may need to get power of attorney (POA) to help manage their finances and health care decisions
- Talk to your parent about their wishes for their future and whether they would like you to have POA
- If they are unable to make these decisions themselves, you will need to obtain a legal document called a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care from a lawyer or other legal professional
- This document will give you the authority to make medical decisions on behalf of your parent if they are unable to do so themselves
- You will also need to obtain a financial POA if your parent is no longer able to manage their own finances
- This can be done through a bank or other financial institution
- Having POA for your parent does not mean that you become their guardian; it simply gives you the legal authority to make certain decisions on their behalf

Credit: www.greatseniorliving.com
Who is Responsible for a Person With Dementia?
Who is responsible for a person with dementia?
The answer to this question depends on the situation and the relationship of the person with dementia to the caregiver. In some cases, such as when the person with dementia is a spouse or adult child of the caregiver, responsibility may fall squarely on the shoulders of the caregiver.
In other cases, such as when the person with dementia is living in a long-term care facility, responsibility may be shared among several caregivers. Ultimately, though, it is important to remember that each situation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
Is a Person With Dementia Considered Incompetent?
No, a person with dementia is not considered incompetent. Dementia is a condition that affects cognitive function, and does not automatically mean that a person is unable to make decisions or understand what is happening around them. In fact, many people with dementia are able to live relatively independent lives.
Can a Person With Dementia Make Their Own Decisions?
A person with dementia may have the legal right to make their own decisions, but they may not have the capacity to do so. This means that they may not be able to understand or remember information well enough to make a decision, or they may not be able to communicate their decision. If a person with dementia is unable to make their own decisions, someone else will need to be appointed as their ‘decision maker’.
This could be a family member, friend, carer or professional (such as a solicitor).
What Happens to Dementia Patients With No Family?
There are many dementia patients who do not have any family to support them. These patients often rely on the support of their friends and community. There are also many organizations that provide support for dementia patients with no family.
One example is the Alzheimer’s Association. The Alzheimer’s Association provides support groups, education, and resources for caregivers and people with dementia.
How to get power of attorney for an elderly parent with dementia?
Legal Steps to Take When Parent Has Dementia
If your parent has been diagnosed with dementia, you may be wondering what legal steps you need to take in order to protect their rights and interests. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Make sure your parent has a valid will.
This will ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes, and can help avoid any family disputes down the road.
2. If your parent is no longer able to make financial decisions on their own, you may need to set up a power of attorney arrangement. This will give you the legal authority to manage their finances on their behalf.
3. You should also consider setting up a health care directive or living will. This document outlines your parent’s preferences for medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate them themselves due to the progression of dementia.
4. It’s important to keep communication open with other family members and close friends of your parent who may be involved in their caregiving or decision-making process.
Keep everyone updated on changes in your parent’s condition and work together to provide the best possible care for them during this difficult time.
Conclusion
If you are the primary caregiver for a parent with dementia, you may need to get power of attorney (POA) to make legal and financial decisions on their behalf. POA is a legal document that gives you authority to act on someone else’s behalf. You can get POA for your parent with dementia by going through the state court system or using an online service.
Once you have POA, you will be able to make decisions about your parent’s healthcare, finances, and living situation. It is important to discuss your plans with other family members and your parent’s doctor before making any major decisions.
About Author (Marjorie R. Rogers)
The inspiring mum of 6 who dedicates her time to supporting others. While battling with her own demons she continues to be the voice for others unable to speak out. Mental illness almost destroyed her, yet here she is fighting back and teaching you all the things she has learned along the way. Get Started To Read …