Jason P. Mallory, H.B.A., J.D.

Finally, after a long and grey winter, the wonderful sights and sounds of summer are upon us! Perhaps you enjoy the sounds of your grandchildren laughing and playing, watching birds at your feeder, or maybe you have a green thumb and take pride gardening in your own yard. Whatever is your special idea of what summer has to offer, there’s a good chance that some of your most meaningful memories take place at your own home, cottage, or farm property.

If this is true for you, consider this in the context of your later years, when you may require specialized care. For example, if you do require specialized care at some point in your life, do you have a preference to remain at your own property for as long as possible?

Maybe you have a child who has offered a space in their family’s home for you to live in the event that you require day-to-day care. If so, do you consent to living with such a child if the circumstances arise?

Do you have a preferred care facility in mind? Perhaps so that you can remain close to your spouse or a loved one who is already living at that particular facility. Consider if a certain care facility has outdoor facilities, gardens, or activity programs that you find appealing for your lifestyle. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, consider providing specific instructions regarding your wishes in your Power of Attorney for Personal Care document. If you provide clarification in your Power of Attorney for Personal Care regarding these wishes, this will make these decisions easier and more clear for your substitute decision makers in the event that you are unable to make these decisions for yourself.

So, get outside and enjoy the sights and sounds of summer, but keep in mind that a bit of planning for the future, including having an up-to-date Power of Attorney for Personal Care with your specific wishes, can give you some peace of mind so that you can focus on enjoying the good things that this warmer weather has to offer.

This article was written by:
Jason P. Mallory, of Mallory Law in Chatham & Blenheim, is the recipient of the Margaret E. Rintoul Award in Estate Planning

*Comments in this article are not meant as legal opinions. Readers are cautioned not to act on information provided without specific legal advice with respect to their particular situation.