Pennsylvania residents commonly link wills and trusts to finances, which certainly play a large role in the process. However, a person is much more than their money and property. Why should the law only protect the future of their assets?
In truth, estate planning is useful for healthcare and family choices as well. These issues may be deeply important to you and your loved ones, which is why they shouldn’t be neglected. Non-monetary decisions are part of a well-rounded blueprint for your future.
Choose the medical care you want
Some people fear losing control of their life as they age, but there are many ways to put your wishes in writing ahead of time. For example, you may pre-select a nursing home or other living arrangement if you would need daily care.
While planning healthcare, you may choose how many elements to include. The possible specifications can be surprisingly detailed. You could also grant someone you trust the health care power of attorney, which allows them to make case-by-case decisions if you ever lose the ability to communicate them yourself.
Help your family move forward
Loss is extremely emotional for a family, especially during the first few days. Family members must make difficult decisions about how to memorialize their loved one. However, there are legal options to lift some of the burden regarding funeral wishes.
Parents also have the power to appoint alternative guardians for their children. Guardianships offer parents peace of mind that their children will be in good hands. In the event of tragedy, the guardian will step up to take care of all aspects in the child’s life. Some parents choose to tell their children about their emergency guardian so that they know what to expect.
Depending on your circumstances, you will have unique items on your estate planning checklist. You can customize your plan to cover the decisions that are important to you, whether they are fiscal or personal.
