This is especially true with people who are gravely injured and cannot make decisions for themselves like for instance when they are under comatose or when they cannot speak, move or are invalid. Power of attorney is one of the ways that you can appoint a representative for you should something happen to you. However, in elderly cases, power of attorney could be abused. Financial/material abuse is the second highest rate of elderly abuse with 42%, following psychological abuse (59%). Financial abuse would include misusing the power of attorney, using the adult s money for other purposes, pressuring adults to sell their home or property, cashing out the adult s pension or cheque, or pressuring the adults to buy alcohol or drugs. The durable power of attorney is called such, since the attorney-in-fact would continue to have authority and act on behalf of the principal, even if the principal becomes incapacitated. Though the durable power of attorney has such characteristic, it is still important for the document to state that it would remain valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated or disabled. The agent should just follow your instructions or directions especially if you are still very much capable of making your own decisions. Thus, it is like you are just sharing your authority or power with another person. In the same way, you could instantly revoke the authority you gave your agent anytime you like especially if you think you are dissatisfied and are dubious about his or her performance of the duty you gave him/her. What will happen if you don t have an attorney-in-fact and you are incapable of acting or deciding for your affairs? The court will then use its discretion in deciding who will be in charge of making decisions regarding your finances, properties, or health care. A judge will choose a person who will serve as your legal representative, and this agent may be someone who you do not fully trust. An Insight On The Different Types Of Power Of Attorney There are different types of power of attorney. These are meant to ensure that the needs of the principal is properly addressed and provided for. When preparing or creating a power of attorney, it is important to get lawyer assistance. They would be able to help you identify what type of power of attorney would be best suitable for your needs.