Health Care Proxy for Seniors Who Are Alone

3/14/2010 11:05:55 AM #

A healthcare proxy or power of attorney is someone whom an individual designates to make medical decisions in the event the patient is unable to make decisions for themselves- often due to unconsciousness or other lack of capacity to make the decision on their own.  It's important to note that the proxy is obligated to make decisions based on what the patient would want, not necessarily what the person serving as proxy would want or do if they were in the same situation.  It also does not carry any authority or responsibility until the patient is unable to make decisions.

This healthcare proxy is usually a family member, but it can be anybody who is willing to accept the responsibility (close friend, neighbor, etc).  They also do not have to live in the local area- although living close by or being available by phone to the healthcare providers is best.

If an individual is unable to designate a proxy or healthcare power of attorney, either because they do not want to or cannot decide who should be, then it is highly recommended that the individual complete a living will or advanced directives.  These are a set of instructions (or patient preferences) regarding what treatment options they prefer.  Most people utilize them to indicate what life saving treatment they want or don't want (CPR, ventilator, antibiotics, ec), but a living will can be expanded to even include which hospital the patient prefers to be admitted to and which ambulance company they want to use.  It is highly recommended that a living will or advanced directives be completed during an appointment with the patient's physician, and copies should be filed with all the patient's healthcare providers.  It is also helpful to have a copy easily locatable at home.

Answer by: Paul Lim, LSW, MBA
Clinical Social Worker, UPMC St. Margaret Hospital

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3/14/2010 11:08:35 AM #

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has a free Living Will and Health Care Power of Attorney form. www.todaysseniorresource.com/closeup.asp

Answer by: The Team at www.TodaysSeniorResource.com

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