I believe a general power of attorney is usually durable. Durable means that it lasts forever, until revoked by the grantor or until death. The power survives incompetency which makes it both very useful and a bit dangerous. Therefore, you should be very careful about executing a durable general power of attorney.
If you want a power of attorney in case you become incompetent, use a springing power of attorney. It springs into existence only if you should become incompetent.
I believe this cite has a section on powers for review. Take a look.
Good luck.