Talking about Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)

As the diagnosis progresses, there are certain topics that need to be addressed while the person living with dementia is still able to make decisions. Broaching sensitive topics will require empathy and patience on your part.  Below are some key things to remember.

An enduring power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone the authority to make decisions on behalf of another person. Depending on what the individual decides, the authority will start immediately or when a medical professional decides the individual no longer has the capacity to make decisions. This needs to be put in place for financial, legal and health-care decisions as dementia progresses.

Try to avoid placing blame on the person living with dementia. This could be saying things like, “you cannot do it anymore” or “you are too disorganized now.” 

Focus on yourself, saying things like, “how can I best help you right now?” or “what would make this easier for you?” 

Do not force an answer right away, broach the topic early so they have time to come to terms with what it means and to give them time to decide.

Try to include the person living with dementia in the decision-making process as much as possible. Encourage regular conversations where they can share what they want their future to look like and how you can help them.  

Try to emphasize that their preferences will be respected by whoever they choose as an attorney. We want to foster a sense of control and independence as much as possible, especially in the early stages of dementia, where an individual is still able to make decisions.