Power of Attorney

[Jennifer Black]

My mother recently signed over power of attorney to her caregiver. I have concerns and wondering if there’s a way to protect her from being financially exploited.

[Anonymous]

Hi Jennifer,

I’ve been a caregiver for many years and can say with certainly that it is rarely appropriate for a caregiver to act as the power of attorney (POA) for their client. I have seen many circumstances in which the client is taken advantage of or the caregiver is wrongly accused. It almost never works out in a positive way.

My suggestion would be to have a discussion with her about other alternatives such as a professional fiduciary our representative payee.

Good luck

[Jennifer Black]

Robert,

Thanks for your suggestions, they are a confirmation of my concerns. I will talk to her as soon as possible, hopefully she’ll listen to me but she can be stubborn!

[Anonymous]

Hi Jennifer,
No problem. Best of luck with everything and let us know how it goes!!

[Jennifer Black]

Hi Robert,

Things did not go well and she’s convinced now that I’m trying to run her life for her. She’s stopped calling and wont return my messages. I’m very worried that she might be allowing the caregiver access to her resources.

[Author]

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