Let’s talk about a topic today we would all prefer not to discuss, incapacity. If we were “down and out” for any amount of time, what do we need to do in advance to help us come through it? We all have blindspots – today we will bring to light an area often avoided while we are living.
Webster’s Dictionary defines incapacity as, “the quality or state of being incapable; especially : lack of physical or intellectual power or of natural or legal qualifications.” Think of being dizzy and passing out – when you are passed out, you are “incapable”. If you have an accident or a fall and are not able to get around to perform daily tasks, you are incapable. If you have a stroke and can no longer speak, you are incapable. If your mental capacity is impaired (dementia/Alzheimer’s), you are incapable. Big and small – illness and accidents happen at any age.
When we are of legal age, we are responsible for our decisions, actions and planning. As much as parents may wish to continue making decisions for their children, part of “adulting” involves legal adults choosing their medical, financial and life decisions.
The main areas to explore when considering incapacity are:
- Medical Decisions. What does quality of life mean to you? How would you like medical personnel to respond if you are non-responsive? ER / hospital staff are trained to do all possible to sustain life. What are your preferences? Have you documented your preferences?
- Financial Decisions. Banking, Investments, Bills, and access to cash is a vital consideration. If your income stopped today, how would you sustain your lifestyle? Do you have protection plans/policies? If someone needed to step in for you to ensure your financial obligations are met, could they?
- Business Decisions. Whether you are an employer or an employee, you have daily responsibilities that would not be handled. Are you set-up to allow a smooth transition or easy access for someone to step in for you?
Speaking from experience, I’ll tell you incapacity is stressful for everyone. Uncertainties add to the stress of an already stressful situation. It helps reduce stress and focus on the “healing at hand” when we know about medical, financial, business and life preferences.
Give yourself some time to consider the what if’s and know that this also applies to the fun what if you want to go on a year-long adventure?! Making decisions and documenting them is liberating! And always remember, all plans can be changed! Yes, this is your life, these are your decisions.
Prepare for incapacity to know you have a road map for yourself and others, if needed.
The Living Planner proactively helps you assess ways for you to take the lead with how you prepare for contingencies at home and business. We explore ways for you to protect what is important to you by asking questions and exploring with you. When you’re ready to explore how to be ready, we’re here for you.
Contact us to learn more about how we work with individuals, business owners and employees via Email or online @ The Living Planner #ExpectTheUnexpected #CareForPeopleCareForBusiness