In its most basic form, a power of attorney, or POA, is a legal document that gives another person the authority to make decisions on your behalf should you become unable to do so.

A power of attorney doesn’t strip you of your rights. It just lets someone else help you out with decisions, like paying bills or handling medical stuff, if you can’t.

Your father can sign his power of attorney and any other legal documents as best he can by making a “mark.” This can even be an “X.” Then the witnesses or notary public should indicate that your ...