Every so often someone will say to me, “My friend asked me to be their power of attorney,” or “I’ve been asked to serve as a trustee.”
Usually, the question that follows is simple: Should I do it?
The answer, of course, depends. Sometimes it is one of the most meaningful ways we can help someone we care about. But too often people say yes without fully understanding what the role involves—and that can lead to stress, conflict, and situations that are much harder to navigate than anticipated.
Recently, a dear friend of mine asked if I would serve as his medical power of attorney. My friend is single, has no close children, and wanted someone he trusted to help if he were unable to make medical decisions for himself.