ALZHEIMER'S AND OTHER FORMS OF DEMENTIA

Our loved ones deserve the best guidance possible in preparing for and overcoming the challenges associated with cognitive disabilities such as dementia.
As cognitive capabilities of a loved one begin to decline, families must deal with serious questions concerning finding consistent and safe care, as well as overwhelming costs. How long can our loved ones safely stay independent? How long can they stay at home alone?

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Initial Planning

Most families are not prepared for the challenges involved with caring for a loved one who has some form of cognitive impairment. Often, the worst mistake can be to ignore the problem or wait until the impairments worsens.  These issues may be far more complex than you realize.  There are usually options available that are unknown to you. It is critical that you seek professional guidance. Your local Alzheimer’s Association is a good place to start. A Geriatric Care Manager, who will investigate issues with the home and care needs of your loved one will can be a terrific resource

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Financial Planning

You need to see an experienced Elder Law attorney as soon as possible. The financial crisis for a spouse or family created by Alzheimer’s or other forms of Dementia, can be devastating. The right attorney can help you through this financial crisis by helping you apply for and receive government assistance, avoid spousal impoverishment, and protect your assets. See an Elder Law attorney at the discovery of the disease – not at the end.

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Legal Planning

Legal planning for Dementia and related problems requires a skillful lawyer-one that can provide unexpected solutions. Your basic legal documents should no longer be so basic.

A well written Power of Attorney, prepared and signed before there is question of competence, can save your home and nest-egg. 

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Many people sign a Will that leaves everything to a spouse and then equally to their children.  While this plan may have satisfied the person's needs when family members were healthy, it is a terrible plan for a married person dealing with this disease. Your Will should now contain a Supplemental Needs Trust for your spouse that will provide for government assistance, take care of any need not provided by that assistance, and protect all of your assets for your children at your spouse’s death.

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A Living Will instructs your physician regarding your end of life decisions.

A Health Care Power Proxy  allows you to appoint one or more agents to make medical decisions for you when you can no longer communicate your wishes for yourself. ​

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Trusts,  Revocable, Irrevocable, and Supplemental Needs Trusts, 

can play an important role in getting you financial support for the care you will need, as well protect your home and other assets at the same time.

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Importantly, you need to see an experienced elder law attorney as soon as possible. Emily Ann Klotz can help you through this financial crisis by helping you apply for and receive government assistance, avoid spousal impoverishment, and protect your assets.