Estate planning is vital for everyone, but it becomes especially critical when facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Early planning ensures individuals’ wishes are legally documented while they can still make informed decisions.
Key Steps for Estate Planning with Alzheimer’s:
- Start Early: Alzheimer’s is progressive, making it harder to plan later. Acting promptly secures future decision-making according to personal preferences.
- Create a Durable Power of Attorney: This document allows a trusted agent to handle finances and legal matters if the individual becomes incapacitated.
- Establish a Healthcare Directive: Advance directives outline medical care preferences, while a healthcare proxy designates someone to make medical decisions when needed.
- Update or Create a Will or Trust: A will outlines asset distribution, while living trusts manage assets during life and after death, streamlining transitions and avoiding probate.
- Plan for Long-Term Care: Consider long-term care insurance or Medicaid planning to manage costly care needs.
- Communicate with Family: Open discussions about wishes and roles prevent future conflicts and ensure everyone is prepared.
The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter (alz.org/nebraska) is grateful for Lee Law Office for sharing these steps and guiding families through the complexities of estate planning with care and expertise. Contact Lee Law Office today to begin your plan by visiting LeeLawOffice.com.
They thank Lee Law Office for being a dedicated supporter of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Greater Omaha. To register or become a sponsor for your local 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/Nebraska.