There are two different kinds of POA. One is strictly for medical issues and the other for legal and/or business matters. There are ways to perform as POA for someone without being liable for their bills but you must have legal advice to do this according to the laws in your state and for your situation. A third document that is similar to POA is a Living Will... used for end of life preferences. Look in your phone book for your local legal aid services office if you don't have an attorney.