Powers of Attorney
With a diagnosis of dementia and the changes associated with decision making, the need to plan for the future is very important while the person with dementia still has the capacity to do so.
Encourage the patient and carer to speak to family, trusted friends and a solicitor when seeking assistance to complete medical treatment decision maker and enduring power of attorney documents.
The Office of the Public Advocate is the principle source for information on medical treatment decision makers, supportive attorneys and Powers of Attorney. State Trustees Victoria provide similar information but also provide services for people where an alternative to family and trusted friends may be needed.
If your patient has a hospital admission, they may be offered information on Advance Care Planning. Further information and resources on these services is outlined below.
Office of the Public Advocate (OPA)
Phone: 1300 309 337 (24 hour Emergency Service)
Fax: 1300 787 510
The Victorian Office of the Public Advocate aims to promote and protect the rights and dignity of people with disabilities including cognitive disability such as dementia. The OPA provides advice and information services for enquiries about matters including powers of attorney, guardianship, VCAT applications, and consent to medical/dental treatment.
'Take Control' is a kit for making powers of attorney and guardianship. It provides clear information about powers of attorney and guardianship, step by step instructions, and a complete set of all the forms that may be needed.
State Trustees
Phone: 1300 138 672
https://www.statetrustees.com.au
State Trustees is a state owned company that helps people with their financial needs. State Trustees provides a range of services including financial support for people who cannot manage their own affairs because of their disability. State Trustees acts as an administrator for people with disabilities when appointed by VCAT and can act as an agent / executor to Powers of Attorney.
Forms and resources
Fact Sheets
Advance Care Planning Factsheet for health professional
Advance Care Planning Factsheet for individuals and families
Advance Care Planning and the law Factsheet for health professionals
Advance Care Planning and the law Factsheet for individuals
Instructions for completing an ‘Advance care directive’ for adults form
Checklists of steps to appoint your medical treatment decision maker