Sign these before a crisis: the paperwork every family needs

The worst time to find out nobody can make decisions for Dad is in a hospital hallway. If a person can no longer speak for themselves and has not named someone, the family may face delays, disagreements or even court.

Power of attorney for health care

This names the person who makes medical decisions if you cannot. Idaho law provides a form that combines it with a living will.

Living will

This says what care you do and do not want if you are dying or permanently unconscious, such as a breathing machine or a feeding tube. It spares your family from guessing.

Idaho’s POST form

POST stands for Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment. It turns your wishes into medical orders, signed by you and your doctor or other provider, that emergency crews and hospitals follow. It is meant for people who are seriously ill or frail. Keep it where paramedics can find it, like on the fridge.

Financial power of attorney

This names someone who can pay bills, talk to the bank and handle money if you cannot. Without it, a family member may not be able to pay for care on your behalf.

A folder of the basics

Medicare and insurance cards, a list of medicines and doctors, and for a veteran, the discharge papers known as the DD-214. VA benefits move faster with it in hand.

An attorney can help draft these. The Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho, 208-667-3179, can point you to free or low-cost legal help for older adults.

Part of Kcounty.Media’s series on senior care in Kootenai County. Every number was checked against Medicare, Idaho or VA sources on Nov. 8, 2026. Rules change, and Medicare Advantage plans can work differently; when in doubt, call SHIBA at 800-247-4422 for free Medicare help.

The writer has worked in hospice, assisted living, skilled nursing and a retirement home, and was once marketing director for two for-profit hospices in the region.