Get this handled. Then focus on everything else.

The healthcare directive and powers of attorney are the priority — those give your people authority to act. If you can complete them this week, do it. The rest can follow. What matters is that someone can make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to.

You need to be able to understand what you're signing and express your wishes clearly. If there's any question, get it done now rather than waiting. If capacity is already significantly impaired, your family may need to pursue a court-appointed guardianship or conservatorship — which is exactly what these documents are designed to avoid.

Someone who will advocate for your wishes, even under pressure. That's not always the person who loves you most — sometimes it's the person who can stay calm in a crisis and push back on doctors or family members if needed. Make sure they know what you want and are willing to follow through.

You can still sign healthcare directives and powers of attorney — those work regardless of whether you have a trust. If you have time and energy, creating a trust now avoids probate for your family later. If you don't, focus on the healthcare documents first.

Yes. Healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and trusts can all be updated as long as you have capacity. If your situation, preferences, or relationships change, you can revise your documents. Nothing is permanent until you're no longer able to make changes.