I have read many of the posts regarding POA on this site. I am in Canada and I know there are peoples from other countries here too, but most are from the USA. I appreciate all the help and support given.
I am curious about POA, both financial and medical. I know there are different terms used.
I have often read that POA can only be 'activated' for lack of a better word, once the parent has been deemed incapable of handing their finances. Here it is different. My dad is not incapacitated mentally, he is exhausted and my brother who has POA ($$ and Health care) has stepped in. I am not concerned about him stepping up to the plate, it is the best option in our situation as I live on an Island 5 hours travelling time away, Dad lives part time with my brother.
Who else has taken up the reins for their parents, while they are still mentally capable, but no longer have the energy to manage their finances?
I believe in the USA the kind of Durable POA you might be thinking of is called a "springing" one - it springs (I rather like this image) into action when the person loses capacity, and not before. I don't know what the regulatory or legal process is for registering it - I expect it varies from state to state?
In the UK, a "Lasting" POA has to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it comes into force; the process includes a six week interval for checks to be made that everyone concerned agrees that it has become necessary and that the person with POA is fit and proper to exercise it. Which is a fine and well-intentioned idea, but absolute H*ll on the nerves for families who are trying to get their loved ones into a memory care unit, I expect.