Can Power Of Attorney Keep Family Away?
Wondering if a power of attorney can keep family away? You’re not alone.
Maybe you’ve been blocked from visiting a parent, stopped from getting updates, or just feel like you’re being shut out.
Short answer – yes, it can happen. But it’s a little more complicated than that.
It’s a tough situation. There are times when limiting contact makes sense. But there are also moments when that power is misused, either on purpose or by accident.
So how do you know the difference? And what can you do if you think something’s not right?
In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know.
Can Power Of Attorney Keep Family Away?
Yes. A medical or healthcare power of attorney is in a position to decide who gets to visit, who’s involved in care decisions, or even who gets updates.
For example, let’s say a person is in the hospital or a care facility.
If they’re not in the shape to make their own choices, their POA steps in. That person (called the “agent”) can talk to doctors, approve treatments, and potentially say, “No, I don’t think this visitor is in the best interest of the patient right now.”

That said, if the person who granted the POA (called the “principal”) is still mentally capable, they call the shots. They can decide who visits and who doesn’t.
The POA only kicks in when the principal can’t make those decisions on their own.
Also Read: How Much Does A Medical Power Of Attorney Cost?
Signs A POA Might Be Abusing Power
It’s not always obvious. Sometimes it starts small like missed phone calls and unanswered texts. Then it turns into canceled visits, no updates, or getting told “they’re not feeling up to it” every time you ask to stop by.
Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- You’re suddenly cut off from regular communication
- The agent refuses to share updates or makes decisions that seem way off
- The principal starts showing signs of emotional distress or withdrawal
- Only one person seems to have access and everyone else is kept in the dark
- The agent seems overly controlling or defensive when asked basic questions
It’s not always sinister, but if you feel something’s off, trust that gut feeling.
At the very least, it’s worth a closer look.
What To Do If POA Is Keeping Family Away?
If someone holding power of attorney is blocking access, not sharing updates, or seems to be isolating your loved one, you don’t have to just sit back and hope things get better.
There are a few ways to push back, raise questions, and take action:
#1 Try To Communicate Directly With The Agent
This should always be your first move. A calm, respectful conversation can go a long way.
Maybe the agent is just overwhelmed or trying to protect the principal and didn’t realize how it was coming across. Let them know you’re concerned and want to stay involved.
Also Read: Does A Power Of Attorney Have To Be Recorded In Virginia?
Don’t accuse – just ask questions and express support.
If they respond positively, great! That could open the door for future communication and maybe even better teamwork going forward.
If they shut you down or get defensive, it might be a sign to dig deeper.
#2 Document Concerning Behavior
If things still feel off after you’ve tried talking, start writing stuff down.
Every interaction (or lack of one), every visit that was denied, every update you were blocked from – jot it down. Include dates, times, who said what, and how the situation played out.
This isn’t just for your memory. If you need to talk to an attorney, ombudsman, or court later on, this kind of info is incredibly helpful.

It shows patterns. It adds context. And it gives your concerns more weight than just “I have a bad feeling.”
#3 Contact Adult Protective Services Or A Local Ombudsman
If you’re genuinely worried that the agent is isolating or mistreating your loved one, it’s okay to involve professionals.
Adult Protective Services (APS) is there to investigate suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. They’ll look into the situation and see if intervention is needed.
If your loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you can also reach out to the local ombudsman. Their job is to stand up for residents and make sure their rights are protected.
#4 Seek Legal Help To Challenge Or Modify The POA
If the situation isn’t improving, or if you’ve uncovered clear misuse of authority, it may be time to bring in a lawyer.
Look for someone who focuses on elder law or estate planning.
They’ll know exactly how POAs work in your state and what your options are.
You may be able to request a review of the POA or even challenge it if the agent is clearly acting against the principal’s best interests. The attorney can also help you figure out if the POA is still valid, or if it was created under pressure or confusion.
#5 Consider Guardianship Or Court Intervention
This is usually a last resort, but in extreme cases, it may be necessary.
If your loved one can’t make decisions anymore and the POA is being abused, you can ask the court to appoint a guardian instead. This takes the authority out of the agent’s hands and puts it under court supervision.
It’s not a quick process, and it does require evidence.
But if someone’s wellbeing is truly at risk, it’s an option worth exploring.
Courts tend to take these requests seriously, especially if there’s documentation, witnesses, or signs of abuse or neglect.
Also Read: The Hidden Costs of Guardianship
When It’s Justified To Limit Family Access
Let’s be honest. Not all family relationships are sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes limiting access is actually a form of protection.
For example:
- If a family member has been abusive
- If their visits cause distress or agitation
- If they’re trying to override medical advice or cause drama
In these cases, the POA agent may be doing what the principal would want or what’s genuinely best for them. It’s not always easy to tell from the outside.
So it’s important to consider the full picture before assuming foul play.
Bottom Line
Power of attorney comes with a lot of responsibility, and unfortunately, a lot of potential for misuse. A medical POA can be used to limit family contact in certain situations, that power is not unlimited or unchecked.
If you’re concerned someone is being isolated or taken advantage of, start with a conversation. Stay calm. Then take it one step at a time.
You’ve got options and your loved one deserves to be safe, supported, and surrounded by people who care.
If you’re not sure what to do next, reaching out to an elder law attorney or local agency can make all the difference.