What are the differences between a durable power of attorney agent, a health care surrogate, and a guardian?

A durable power of attorney agent usually handles financial and legal matters (and in some cases, medical matters).

A health care surrogate can take care of health care decisions when needed.

A guardian usually makes most decisions for a ward that is incapacitated. The legal right to make decisions in certain (usually most) areas is taken away from the ward. This is done through a court process.

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