Q. What do your cat, your car, your home, your heirloom jewellery and your health have in common?

A. They are all things that you want to be sure are looked after if you are unable to.

Few of us want to think about something happening to us that might impact on our ability to make sound decisions. The reality is, we can’t predict what’s going to happen in life that may impact on our health or wellbeing.

Something we can plan for, is having someone in place to make decisions for you if you can’t make them for yourself. This is called having an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA).

Having an EPA means you can decide, ahead of time, who you trust to look after the things that are precious to you. There are two types of EPA:

• Property: This EPA covers decisions about money and assets and can be put into effect at any time. More than one attorney can be chosen for this EPA.

• Personal care and welfare: This EPA covers decisions about your health, accommodation and care. It comes into effect only if a medical professional or Family Court decides a person is ‘mentally incapable’. Only one attorney can be selected for this EPA.

Money, health, assets, pets - they’re important to us. So it’s important to choose your attorney wisely - you want to be sure that your wishes and feelings are respected. Think about a friend or family member, a work colleague or even a trustee corporation like the Public Trust.

It does take time and money to set up an EPA - but the investment is worth it. Sickness or injury can happen at any time - knowing that someone can make important decisions on your behalf is investing in peace of mind, for you and your family.

You can find out more about setting up an EPA at the SuperSeniors website www.superseniors.msd.govt.nz.

You can also find SuperGold Card offers at www.supergold.govt.nz/directory which can provide discounts for legal services and setting up an EPA,.

Don’t leave it until later. Think about the things you care about , who you will entrust to care about them too?

The Office for Seniors provides information to seniors and to the Government about the issues and concerns of older people.

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