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What should I do if I have no close relatives for legal matters?

What should I do if I have no close relatives for legal matters?

Q: How long can you live with dementia?

The lifespan of someone with dementia varies widely depending on the type of dementia, overall health, and the care they receive. On average, individuals may live 4 to 8 years after diagnosis, but some can live longer. Factors such as age, health conditions, and the quality of care can significantly influence life expectancy.

Full question:

I am single with no kids or siblings or close relatives. Ten years ago I moved across the country to live with my parents and help them cope with dementia. That has been a full-time job. Dad died 4 years ago and Mom is in hospice care at home; I remain primary caregiver. I am trying to get my legal house in order (trust, DPOA, HCPOA, etc.) but over the last ten years I've lost touch with old friends on the other side of the country. So, at this time, I have no one in my life to appoint as trustee, DPoA, Health Surrogate, Personal Rep, etc. I can't be the only one in this awkward spot. So, what do you recommend people in my situation do regarding these matters?

Category: Power of Attorney
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Florida

Answer:

No, you are not alone in not having close relatives to appoint for these roles. In most states, you can appoint almost any adult. However, some states have restrictions on who you can appoint, such as treating health care providers or their employees. It’s best to avoid appointing a nurse-practitioner or cardiologist for these roles.

You can consider appointing a friend, a lawyer, a geriatric care manager, or another professional who assists individuals without close family. This can help ensure your legal matters are handled according to your wishes.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Who is responsible for a parent with dementia?

The primary responsibility for a parent with dementia typically falls on the adult child or caregiver. This person may need to make decisions about their parent's care, finances, and legal matters. If there are no close relatives, a trusted friend or professional, such as a geriatric care manager, can be appointed to help manage these responsibilities. It's essential to establish legal documents like a power of attorney to ensure that someone can act on behalf of the individual with dementia.

How does dementia lead to death?

Dementia itself is not a direct cause of death but leads to complications that can be fatal. As the disease progresses, it impairs cognitive functions and the ability to perform daily activities. This can result in malnutrition, infections, or other health issues. Ultimately, the decline in overall health and the body's inability to cope with these complications can lead to death.

What kills people with dementia?

People with dementia often die from complications related to the disease, such as pneumonia, infections, or malnutrition. As cognitive abilities decline, individuals may lose the ability to communicate their needs or care for themselves, leading to serious health issues that can be life-threatening. It's crucial for caregivers to monitor health closely and seek medical attention when necessary.