Living Will vs. Will, and Power of Attorney

What are Living Will, Will, and Power of Attorney (POA) Documents?

These are legal documents that allow your care recipient to state what they want for themselves and their estate.

Power of Attorney

When: While your care recipient is living and needs help.
What: Your care recipient names a friend or family member they trust to make decisions about their healthcare and finances.

Living Will

When: While your care recipient is living, this takes effect near the very end of life.
What: Your care recipient has instructions for their doctor and healthcare team about their wishes at the end of their life.

Will

When: After your care recipient has passed away.
What: Your care recipient states what they would like done with their estate.

Want help completing these documents?

Contact:

• Your local Area Agency on Aging

• An elder law attorney

• Your family doctor or healthcare team