When a spouse refuses to sign power of attorney documents, it's important to take action early while they are still in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's. The best approach is to work with an attorney to discuss options for pursuing a durable power of attorney (POA) for financial and medical matters.
If cost is a concern Show Full Answer
When a spouse refuses to sign power of attorney documents, it's important to take action early while they are still in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's. The best approach is to work with an attorney to discuss options for pursuing a durable power of attorney (POA) for financial and medical matters.
If cost is a concern, some banks and credit unions have attorneys on staff who can help with basic legal documents for a modest fee. If no POA is established, there is a legal hierarchy of who can make medical decisions if someone becomes incapacitated:
• Legal spouse or domestic partner
• Adult children
• Adult siblings
• Caregivers (non-healthcare providers)
• Close friends or nearby relatives
However, it's important to note that a doctor must verify that the person can't make their own healthcare decisions before any agent can intervene. Try to keep your spouse involved in financial decisions when possible, such as reviewing bills together or setting up a separate account with a modest balance they can manage. This approach has helped other caregivers maintain their spouse's sense of independence while ensuring necessary decisions can be made.
October 11, 2025
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