7.4 Principal and appointed decision-maker experiences
Over half of principals felt confident (53%) about their arrangement with their appointed decision-maker(s)
and two in five felt content (42%) or in control (41%).
However, two in five (21%) said they felt either overwhelmed, nervous or stressed about the arrangement with
their appointed decision-maker(s).
As respondents could fall into multiple categories, the numbers here are not additive.
Figure 44 – How principals feel about their arrangement with their appointed decision-maker(s)
Q42
Confident
53%
Content
42%
In control
41%
Relieved
41%
Overwhelmed
10%
Nervous
10%
Stressed
9%
Ambivalent
7%
Something else
None of the above
21%
o f re s p o n d e n t s re p o r t e d
feel i n g overwh el med,
n ervo u s a n d/o r stressed
1%
4%
Q.42. When thinking about your arrangement with your appointed decision-maker(s), how do you
generally feel? Please select all that apply. Base: All principals n=537
Nearly two-thirds of principals (63%) were highly confident that their appointed decision-maker(s) would
look after their finances in line with their preferences and best interests. 33% were moderately confident and a
small percentage not very confident (3%) or not confident at all (2%).
Generally speaking, appointed decision-makers who were younger than 65 years old were less confident in
carrying out their obligations, and those who were 65 or older were more confident.
When asked to give stories about their FEPOA experiences, many principals described positive or neutral
experiences, feelings of trust or having peace of mind. However, it should be noted that these reflections are
primarily from people whose FEPOAs are not currently in use.
‘I completely trust my appointed decision-maker to act lawfully, in good conscience, to
the best of her ability, and to be honest and fair. I have no doubts about this person.’ –
Principal, FEPOA not in use
‘I felt confident appointing [my] decision makers. I trust the people I have appointed
and have no concerns about them acting in my best interests’ – Principal, FEPOA is not
in use
50
Empowering futures: A national survey on the understanding and use of financial enduring powers of attorney