When it is time to care for Mom, first see what needs to be done. Visit with Mom. Talk to her and ask how you can help. Moms are used to being the caretaker, so it may take time to reverse roles. Does Mom need help with banking or managing her bills? Is Mom ready to sell her home and move to assisted living? Does Mom need help around the house, with meals or daily living tasks?
To help with banking or paying bills, you always need Mom’s permission. Usually when making phone calls for Mom, she will be present and can verbally authorize you to handle her affairs. If Mom can’t be present, physically or mentally, you need the proper documents granting you authority to help. Ask her attorney.
Review Mom’s power of attorney to see who is appointed and when the power becomes effective. Some powers of attorney are effective upon signing; others, first, require a doctor’s letter to demonstrate incapacity. Because most banks require the power of attorney to specifically grant banking powers, determine whether her power of attorney includes those powers.
Does Mom have a trust? The trustee can manage her bank accounts and home held in the trust. If Mom is the trustee, she may be ready to resign and allow you to become trustee. Should Mom’s home need to be sold to pay for assisted living, as trustee, you would have the authority to sell it. When you sell the home, deposit the proceeds in an account held in the trust. Mom may want to remain home, so consider home care.
Extra love and attention goes a long way. You do not need any documents to help around the house, give hugs or bring meals to share.