What the hell is power of attorney and why do you need it?
When shit goes down and a health crisis happens with our aging parents, this is one of the first questions we are asked. But what the hell is a power of attorney and why do we need it?
You know those moments in life when someone asks you a question and your brain completely short-circuits? And then one day, something happens and you are asked, “Are you the Power of Attorney?” (or POA of you want to sound cool…)
Because when an aging parent has a health crisis, gets hospitalized, or suddenly needs help managing finances, this is one of the first questions doctors, nurses, social workers, and banks ask. And if your answer is “Uhhhhhh… maybe?” You are definitely not alone!
In Season 1, Episode 2 of The Sandwich Generation Pod, Robyn Frank and Eliesa Johnson sit down with estate planning and elder law attorney Rachel Schromen of Schromen Law, LLC to talk about the legal documents every family should have before a crisis happens.
And honestly? This episode might save you from future chaos, sibling fights, and a hell of a lot of stress.
Rachel Schromen of Schromen Law, LLC. The attorney WE trust!
So, What Is Power of Attorney?
Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows someone to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf if you can’t.
Simple enough in theory.
But here’s what we learned: a LOT of people assume that if something happens to their parents, they’ll automatically be able to help. Talk to the bank. Pay bills. Handle paperwork. Speak on their behalf.
That’s, unfortunately, not how it legally works.
Why This Matters So Much for Families
If you’re caring for aging parents while also raising kids, and working full time, the last thing you need during a health emergency is legal confusion.
Rachel does an amazing job explaining how estate planning isn’t just about preparing for death, it’s really about making life easier during hard moments.
It’s about reducing stress, protecting relationships, and making sure someone can step in and help when needed!
Here’s The Part That Really Surprised Us
This stuff is not just for elderly adults.
One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation was learning how important these documents are for everyone over 18.
Including:
college kids,
young adults,
healthy adults (that’s you and me!)
Once someone turns 18, parents no longer automatically have access to medical information or financial decisions in an emergency.
So yes, technically your teenager can vote, but they should probably also fill out a Health Care Directive and Power of Attorney before leaving for college.
Adulthood is real, y’all!
Why We’re So Glad We Had This Conversation
This episode felt important because it took something intimidating and made it feel manageable. Rachel shares practical advice for how families can approach estate planning conversations with compassion instead of panic. And one thing we loved? She talks a lot about meeting families where they are — not making people feel judged or overwhelmed.
You don’t have to have everything figured out overnight.
You don’t need to become an elder law expert.
You just need to start the conversation before a crisis forces one.
And if you’re in the Sandwich Generation, chances are this episode will either: 1) Help you now or 2) Help you sooner than you think!
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen on Apple or Spotify
In this episode, we cover:
Why Power of Attorney and Health Care Directives are important for ALL of us, NOW! Including your freshly turned 18 year old.
What’s valuable about hiring an attorney to help with Estate Planning and Elder Law.
How to interview attorneys to find the right personality and fit for your family.
When to strategically schedule legal meetings + important appointments to allow everyone to retain the information best.
How siblings should play to each other’s strengths to divide and conquer responsibilities.
What’s the difference between Power of Attorney and co-signer on your parent’s bank accounts, and which one is better.
If you’re new here, we cohost a podcast called The Sandwich Generation Pod and along with my friend Robyn Frank. We talk about the realities of raising our young kids alongside caregiving for our aging parents. We invite you to listen and share with anyone you know who this might help!
Links and Resources:
**The following links are resources based in the state of Minnesota.**
Schromen Law, LLC - Learn more about Rachel’s practice and approach to Estate Planning and Elder Law. We know we’ll be making an appointment!
10 Questions to ask your Estate Planning Attorney - A very cool document provided by Schromen Law, LLC that walks you through questions to ask while calling around for Estate Planning and Elder Law.
State of Minnesota Power of Attorney Forms - If you’re interested in a DIY approach. A word of caution - these forms can seem deceivingly simple. We might recommend hiring a pro to help guide you.
State of Minnesota Health Care Directive Form - If you’re interested in a DIY approach. A word of caution - these forms can seem deceivingly simple. We might recommend hiring a pro to help guide you.
Low Income Resources:
LOVEe + Robyn
