Why You Need a Personal Advocate

Have you ever wondered what would happen if your life took a sudden turn for the worse – a car accident, emergency surgery….who would take care of your life while you were fighting for it?

A personal advocate is an individual you trust to make decisions and take actions on your behalf when you’re incapable of doing so. While legal documents often support their authority, the role of a personal advocate goes beyond legal formalities – they’re your voice and basically act in your place so that your life doesn’t spin into chaos.

The need for a personal advocate isn’t limited to the elderly or those with chronic illnesses. Life is unpredictable, and having someone ready to step in during unexpected situations can provide peace of mind. This could be a family member, a trusted friend, or a professional with expertise in the area where you need assistance.

The reason we like to start thinking of things ahead of time is that – especially in this situation – you want to have a standing relationship with this person. Trust is extremely important and that is not built overnight.

Even if you have someone you know you can trust and count on – for example an adult child – you need to make sure they are at least somewhat in the loop of your finances and routine so that they can quickly step in as needed.

When Might You Need an Advocate?

Let’s break down some scenarios where a personal advocate can be a game-changer:

• Medical Emergencies: When you’re unconscious or unable to communicate, your advocate can inform doctors about your allergies, medical history, and treatment preferences.
• Long-term Illness: During extended periods of illness, your advocate can keep your life from falling into disarray, managing everything from bill payments to pet care.
• Financial Management: If you’re unable to handle your finances, your advocate can step in to manage investments and handle insurance claims.
• Legal Matters: Your advocate can represent your interests in legal proceedings, ensuring your rights are protected.
• Personal Affairs: From communicating with family and friends to managing your social media accounts, your advocate can handle day-to-day personal matters.
• Travel or Extended Absences: If you’re unreachable while traveling, your advocate can handle urgent matters at home.

Choosing Your Person

While financial management is a big part of an advocate’s role, it’s not the whole story. In situations where you might feel overwhelmed or unsure, an advocate can be your clarity in the chaos. They can articulate your concerns, ask the right questions, and make sure that your preferences are respected.

When it comes to choosing an advocate, trust is the name of the game. This isn’t a decision to be made lightly – after all, you’re potentially putting your life in this person’s hands. Here are some key points to consider:

• Choose Wisely: Select someone you trust implicitly. This could be a family member, a close friend, or even a professional in relevant fields.
• Communicate Clearly: Have open, honest conversations about your wishes and expectations. Remember, your advocate can’t read your mind!
• Formalize Legally: Ensure the arrangement is legally binding to avoid complications down the road.
• Create a ‘Life Map’: Document important information like bill payments, account access, and locations of crucial items. Think of it as a guidebook for your life.
• Regular Reviews: Meet with your advocate periodically to review and update your plans. Life changes, and your arrangements should too.

Of course, having a personal advocate isn’t without its challenges. Family disagreements can arise, your chosen advocate’s circumstances might change, or you might worry about balancing your autonomy with their intervention. The key is clear communication, regular reviews of your arrangements, and being specific about when and how you want your advocate to step in.

Wrapping It Up: Your Action Plan

So, where do you start? Begin by examining your own life. Ask yourself:

• Are your bills on auto-pay? Which ones might need to be adjusted in your absence?
• What funds do you use for credit card payments, and who else has access?
• Where do you keep important items like your safe, crucial documents, and password list?

Creating a comprehensive “life map” and storing it securely gives your advocate a clear starting point in case of emergency.

To give your advocate the authority they need, you’ll want to have these documents in order:

• Durable Power of Attorney: This gives your advocate authority to manage your financial and legal affairs.
• Healthcare Proxy or Medical Power of Attorney: This allows your advocate to make medical decisions on your behalf.
• Living Will: This outlines your preferences for end-of-life care.
• HIPAA Authorization: This allows your advocate to access your medical information.

Choosing an advocate is a big decision, but it’s one that can provide immense peace of mind. By taking these steps, you’re not just planning for the future – you’re ensuring that your voice will be heard and your wishes respected, no matter what challenges you may face.

Remember, while this article provides a general overview, it’s crucial to consult with legal and financial professionals for advice tailored to your specific situation. After all, your life is unique – your advocacy plan should be too.