We find the AgingCare website to be a good source information for end of life planning. The website includes a forum for readers to post questions and offer their experiences. However, readers need to be careful when the forum is used to seek legal help on end of life issues. One such topic thread began
Power of Attorney
Health Care Proxy: Someone with a Backbone
By Bill Stalter on
Posted in Power of Attorney, Transition Documents
The Conversation Project recently posted a blog entry titled “Somebody with a Backbone”: Tips for Choosing a Health Care Proxy. We could not agree more with the post’s recommendations about how to go about selecting a power of attorney for health care decisions. The post includes a hyperlink to “How to” brochure that is…
Transition Plans: Family Support
By Bill Stalter on
Posted in Power of Attorney, Transition Documents
The Kansas City Star recently devoted a column to Marty Schottenheimer, and his family’s support as he adjusts to life with Alzheimer’s. Coach Schottenheimer was diagnosed with the disease in his late 60’s, but continues an active life, with the assistance of his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. The column is a reminder that multiple family…
Designating the Right of Sepulcher: my mother’s confusing instructions
By Bill Stalter on
My mom died recently, and her failure to put in writing her final arrangements resulted in a family conflict.
My mother did not like discussing death, and avoided the topic of her own death at all costs. A few years ago, my mother asked that I prepare a durable power of attorney, and include powers…
Right of Sepulcher: An Attorney’s Error
By Bill Stalter on
Betty Jean Collins had her own preferences for the disposition of her body, but her children had other plans. As counsel to many funeral homes, I have seen this situation too many times. The time that should be used for remembrance and healing, is instead marked by conflict and expense. A right of sepulcher designation…