Unless you specify otherwise, the agent will have the same authority that you would decide about treatment. The authority encompasses the right to forego treatment or to consent for needed treatment. The agent's authority begins only when a physician determines that you have lost the capacity to decide about treatment. By executing a will, you may dispose of property at your death in the proportions and to the persons you wish, appoint competent and trustworthy executors, trustees and children's guardians and create testamentary trusts. Life Estates should be explored Joint Ownership should also be considered.
Gifts can also be a significant element of one's estate-planning strategy.