Important Documents &
Advanced Directives
Advance Directives are a written statement of your wishes for medical treatment to ensure they are carried out in the event you are not able to communicate them to your doctor or healthcare professional. You can state your wishes to avoid any confusion for your friends, family or health care professionals later on. Types of Advance Directives include a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, Living Will and a POLST. Another important document is a Durable Power of Attorney for Finances. This is different from a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care but is equally as important. Documents available to download below.
Assisted Living Required Forms
For a complete list of required forms for Assisted Living Facilities click here.
Durable Power of Attorney - Health Care
This is a legally binding document that allows you to state your health care wishes and appoint a trusted person (agent, proxy or attorney –in-fact) to ensure your wishes are honored. This document must have two witnesses or notarized to be valid. If you live in a skilled nursing facility this document must also be witnessed by an Ombudsman, (530) 229-1435. You can download and print a copy of a healthcare power of attorney below, and you can click here for the instructions on how to fill out form.
POLST - Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment
This is a legal document that spells out your wishes for medical treatment, such as no resuscitation in the event your heart stops beating (DNR - Do Not Resuscitate) or if you choose to have artificial nutrition such as a feeding tube. It does not allow you to appoint a person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. This form should be completed with your physician. It does not require witnesses or notarization, only a signature from your physician. Be sure to hang it on your refrigerator or in a place visible for emergency responders. Must be printed on hot/bright pink paper!
Durable Power of Attorney - Finances
This is a legal document, different than a healthcare durable power of attorney, which allows you to appoint a person (agent, proxy, attorney-in-fact) to carry out your financial affairs such as selling your home. This document is required to be notarized.
Special Tip!
You do not need an attorney to complete these documents however, having an attorney review your Durable Power of Attorney for finances is highly recommended. If you have completed these documents already be sure you review them periodically to be sure they are up-to-date and you have the right person speaking on your behalf. This will avoid confusion and arguments later on. Be sure a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare (Healthcare Directives) is included in your estate plan or living trust.