Power of attorney: How to secure your future in the Uckermark!

Power of attorney: How to secure your future in the Uckermark!

What happens if the daily farewell greeting before work is suddenly interrupted by an accident or heart attack? This question concerns not only individuals, but also the professional world. Janet Tank, a 49-year-old legal guardian from Uckermark, sees the significant consequences of suppressing topics such as health care power of attorney and living wills in her daily work. In Germany, around 1.3 million people are currently under legal care, but only 40% have a power of attorney for health care. People over 50 years of age who think that the issue is not urgent or necessary are often particularly affected.

Without a power of attorney, in an emergency, a legal guardian will be appointed who often does not correspond to your own expectations. Married couples have been advised to create these powers of attorney since January 1, 2023, but many are putting the idea on hold. It is important to hold on to your own will regarding life-saving measures. A living will is essential for this; it allows one's own wishes to apply even in critical situations such as emergency calls.

The options for prevention

In addition to the living will, a care directive can also be helpful. This makes it possible to name a trustworthy acquaintance or neighbor as a carer and to document the type of care desired. Anyone who wants to benefit from this should deal with these issues in good time. In the Uckermark, various full-time and voluntary carers offer advice, which is regularly checked by the care authority.

In order to raise public awareness of these important issues, consumer advice centers are organizing a “Precaution” focus week from November 3rd to 7th. This includes not only information stands, but also free advice on precautionary measures, which is offered by Janet Tank and her colleagues.

Online lectures and information

Particularly noteworthy are the online lectures from consumer advice centers that take place during the focus week. These are aimed at all age groups who want to organize their own representation. Participants only need an internet connection via PC or laptop as well as speakers or headphones to take part in the live events on the Edudip platform. After registering, you will be sent an invitation link by email containing the necessary information to participate.

So it's worth taking a look into the future. A timely decision about your own precautions can make a lot of things easier in an emergency. After all, no one is immune from unforeseeable events, and a good knack for precaution can make a big difference. If you want to think long-term, you shouldn't hesitate - information and action are required!

For further information and advice, those interested can use the consumer advice centers' offers.