How to designate a trusted companion?

1Who can be designated?

Any adult with legal capacity can be designated as a trusted companion: a family member, a close friend, your treating physician, or an independent professional. There is no requirement of a family relationship.

The only criterion that truly matters: it should be someone you trust to speak on your behalf should you one day be unable to express yourself, and who accepts this role.

2What the document must contain

The law does not provide a single mandatory form, but the document must be:

• Written — a simple paper document is enough
• Dated
• Signed by you, the person making the designation
• Signed by the designated person, who accepts the role (co-signature)

3Where and to whom to submit the document

Once signed, the document can be:

• Given to your treating physician, to be added to your medical file
• Given to the hospital upon admission or hospitalization
• Kept at home, provided you inform your relatives so it can be found when needed

You can also give a copy to the designated person themselves, so they know they have been chosen and understand the scope of the role.

4When to designate them?

As early as possible — this is even recommended. Many people wait for a crisis or a hospitalization to think about it, precisely the moment when there is the least energy and clarity to handle it calmly. Designating your trusted companion in advance ensures the arrangement is already in place the day you actually need it.

5Can you change your mind?

Yes, at any time, without having to justify yourself. A simple written statement indicating that you are revoking the designation, or designating a new person, is enough. No legal procedure is required — it is a fundamental principle of this status: it serves your autonomy, never the other way around.

6What does a trusted companion actually do?

They have no power to decide in your place. Their role: to accompany you during medical consultations and hospitalizations if you wish, and — should you one day be unable to express yourself — to convey your wishes to the care team. They help you understand and ask the right questions, without ever substituting themselves for you.

Also read

Emergency hospitalization of an elderly relative: what to do? — the right reflexes if the situation happens before you've had time to plan ahead.

Elderly parent living far away: how to help from a distance? — practical solutions for geographically distant caregivers.