What is the difference between power of attorney and guardianship?

POA gives responsibility and authority. Guardianship gives responsibility, authority plus control.

Take the time to talk with an elder law attorney about all your options.

With a power of attorney, you choose who you want to act for you. In a guardianship proceeding, the court chooses who will act as guardian. A power of attorney is an estate planning document that allows a person you appoint to act in place of you for financial purposes when and if you ever become incapacitated.