Question

What would you do Cindy Smith is a new resident of Lotus Compassionate Care. While you were preparing her breakfast, she shared with you how she was “put away” in the centre. A couple of months ago she had spent some time in the hospital due to a major surgery. During this time, her son offered to help manage her finances. She said that she thought it seemed like a good idea at the time, so she signed an Enduring Power of Attorney, not fully knowing the extent of the power she handed over to her son. When she went home about two months later, she checked her bank statements and found that her bank balance dropped by $25,000. Another month later, she found that the house was being sold, and she was being asked to choose a home.

Answer 1

The question is related to elder law and how legal documentation such as an Enduring Power of Attorney can affect the lives of elderly individuals, highlighting the importance of proactive planning.

Step-by-step explanation:

The situation described involves Cindy Smith, a new resident at Lotus Compassionate Care, who shared concerns about the Enduring Power of Attorney she signed that allowed her son to manage her finances. This matter falls under the category of elder law, which deals with issues affecting the aging population. Instances such as the case of Sharon Kowalski and Karen Thompson, who faced legal struggles due to a lack of marriage recognition, and women who managed affairs during the war, are examples where legal decisions significantly affected individuals' lives. In these situations, proactive planning, such as retirement planning, living wills, and medical power of attorney, are crucial for maintaining autonomy and ensuring proper care.