Wills and Trusts usually come into effect after the death of a Trustor. However, when a person is incapacitated mentally or physically, a Durable Power of Attorney is used. These allow you to name your agents to make financial and medical decisions for you when you are unable to make them yourself. These are vitally important to allow all of your bills to be paid and medical decisions made for you while you are still alive but unable to make your own decisions. They prevent the need for Conservatorships, which are court controlled.
Planning ahead to name your agents allows you to control who makes decisions for you when you cannot. This guarantees that your wishes will be followed regarding extraordinary medical measures taken during terminal illnesses or vegetative states. It gives you peace of mind and also gives direction to your doctors and caregivers.