Power of Attorney and Living Will Foundations: Planning for Incapacity

Power of attorney documents and advance healthcare directives prepare for the possibility of incapacity, when you cannot make decisions for yourself. Understanding these tools is essential for every adult, not just elders. This course gives you a calm, structured introduction. You will learn the major incapacity planning documents, the role of each, and how to think about choosing agents. The course stays grounded in widely used principles and respects that specific rules vary by jurisdiction. What you'll learn: - Understand the major incapacity documents including financial power of attorney, healthcare proxy, and living will - Recognize the distinction between durable and springing powers of attorney - Read the purpose of HIPAA authorizations alongside healthcare proxies - Identify the considerations in choosing agents including trust, availability, and willingness to serve - Apply principles for keeping documents current as life changes - Distinguish informational guidance from legal advice for actual document preparation The course begins with major documents, moves through durable versus springing distinctions, HIPAA authorizations, agent considerations, keeping documents current, and closes with the line between information and legal advice. Written exercises help you reflect on planning needs. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no incapacity planning background, including young adults preparing first documents, parents updating planning, and family members supporting elder planning. No legal background is required. The course is informational and does not provide legal advice; incapacity documents involve significant legal consequences and benefit from consultation with qualified attorneys, especially for complex family situations.