CALL US 24/7:
(844) 444-4444

Not Accepting New Clients in the State of Florida

North Fort Myers Elder Law Lawyer Explores Health Care Proxies

Estate Planning & Will

The people who live in North Fort Myers work hard and are constantly looking for ways to protect their futures. You are never too young to start talking to an elder law attorney, because an elder law attorney is there to make your golden years easier. When you talk to an elder law attorney, they will want to discuss the need for and benefits of a health care proxy. If you have never heard of a health care proxy before, then it is a good idea to use your elder law attorney as a resource to get the important information you need.

What Is A Health Care Proxy?

As part of your estate planning process, an elder law expert is going to ask you to designate a health care proxy. The proxy is a person who will speak on your behalf if you are unable to speak. For example, if you become unconscious because of a sudden illness, your proxy would answer questions and give directions to medical personnel.

How Many Proxies Should I Have?

Most people make their spouse their health care proxy, which makes logical sense. But if you and your spouse are in the same car accident, then your spouse is certainly not going to be able to speak on your behalf. It is a good idea to have a secondary health care proxy in place in case something happens to your first choice. For those of us without spouses, a trusted loved one should be appointed.

Does My Health Care Proxy Make All Decisions For Me?

The person you name as your health care proxy only makes medical decisions on your behalf. You can also arrange it so that your proxy only makes certain types of medical decisions such as whether or not to allow doctors to use a synthetic blood when real blood is not available. Your health care proxy does not make any other decisions on your behalf. In most cases, the person who holds your power of attorney would make financial and business decisions for you.

Why Should I Have A Health Care Proxy?

If you are in a medical emergency and unable to speak for yourself, most states direct doctors to take all necessary steps to save your life. A health care proxy will ensure that your input will be given on important decisions. For example, if the doctors determine that your only chance for survival is to be on life-support, your health care proxy can step in and point out that you do not wish to be kept alive by a machine. Your proxy will be there to make sure that the decisions that are made reflect the things that are important to you.

When you talk about your estate planning needs with your North Fort Myers elder law attorney, be sure to discuss your health care proxy and be sure to put one in place as soon as possible.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A CONSULTATION

We are dedicated to making a difference in your life and that of your family.

 

Bonita Springs Location

27499 Riverview Center Blvd,
Suite 245
Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Click for Directions
Contact Us