The appointment of an enduring guardian allows you to choose someone to make medical and lifestyle decisions for you when and if you lose capacity. An enduring guardian is different to a power of attorney who is only able to make financial and legal decisions on behalf of the appointor.
An enduring guardian(s) is appointed through a document signed by the appointor and appointed guardian(s). The document sets out the limits of the guardian’s powers, the types of decisions that can be made and commencement of appointment.
Types of decisions that an enduring guardian can make:
– Living arrangements (nursing home, retirement village)
– Social arrangements (home support services, social activities)
– Medical and dental treatment (doctor, medication, hospitalisation, life support)
You must appoint an enduring guardian whilst you still have capacity. This will ensure that your wishes are looked after by someone you trust.
It is important that you get legal advice before you sign an Appointment of Enduring Guardian. Contact the estate planning lawyers at Matthews Folbigg for more information.
