UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
Legal and financial guide · ElderCareCosts Research
Advance Directive vs Power of Attorney
An advance directive often records treatment preferences; a healthcare proxy names who decides if your parent cannot speak for themselves.
The basics
A financial power of attorney is usually a separate money document.
USA.gov maintains a consumer overview of advance care directives; use state-specific forms for signing.
Sources
- USA.gov. Advance care directives. Federal pointer to advance directives, health-care proxies, and related planning distinct from guardianship
- NIA. Getting your affairs in order. Federal consumer overview of legal and financial planning, power of attorney while capacity remains, and court processes when capacity is lost
- ACL. Administration for Community Living. Federal aging and community living context for housing and daily-support options
Related
Not sure which of these apply to your family?
We find licensed options near you, with the cost data we publish and payment options flagged. Data stays free either way.