Planning ahead can help make sure your wishes are known and respected if you become unable to make decisions for yourself in the future.
It can also make things clearer and less stressful for family members, friends and professionals who may be supporting you.
Thinking about the future and having conversations early can give peace of mind and help people stay in control of their own decisions for as long as possible.
Who this information is for
This information may be helpful if you:
Want to plan ahead for your future care or finances
- Are supporting a family member or friend
- Are worried about what might happen if someone becomes unwell
- Want to understand legal options such as Power of Attorney
- Are thinking about care or support for later in life
Planning ahead can be helpful at any age, not just when someone is unwell.
What is Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
You decide:
- Who your attorney (or attorneys) will be
- What decisions they can make
Powers can cover welfare and financial decisions covering health, care, managing money or paying bills.
Putting a Power of Attorney in place helps ensure that decisions are made in line with your wishes.
Clear, step‑by‑step guidance on how Power of Attorney works in Scotland is available from the Office of the Public Guardian (Scotland).
Why planning ahead matters
Planning ahead means important decisions are not left until a crisis. It can help:
- Reduce uncertainty during difficult times
- Support personal choice and independence
- Make things easier for families and carers
- Help services understand and respect your preferences
Planning may also involve thinking about future care needs, housing options and funding.
Information about care, support and costs is available in Paying for care and free personal care.
Where to get help and advice
Independent advice and support about planning ahead is available from:
- Age Scotland, which offers guidance on later‑life planning and wellbeing
- Citizens Advice Scotland, which provides advice on legal and financial matters
If planning ahead is linked to wider concerns about care or support needs, advice is also available through Accessing care.
