Putting "the powers" in place: barriers for people with memory loss in planning for the future

This research explored the experience of appointing enduring powers with individuals who had been diagnosed with early memory loss. Appointing a substitute decision-maker becomes a matter of urgency when dementia is diagnosed although most people are unaware of their legal rights associated with enduring powers and advance directives. Eighteen participants with memory loss were interviewed either alone or with a family member. Interviews were transcribed using qualitative analysis for descriptive data and relevant themes. The findings indicate that the law and practice to do with enduring powers and advance directives is complex, it is not easy to obtain appropriate information, and it is a difficult process to go through without support. There is a need for accessible, supportive services with easy access to the documents and assistance from trained health and legal professionals, and for community education programs to encourage people to plan for their future before their decision-making capacity is lost.