If you have begun to notice that a loved one is showing the signs of being afflicted by Alzheimer’s or another type of cognitive dementia, you need to consult with an estate planning attorney as soon as possible. One of the most important elements of planning ahead with Alzheimer’s has to do with time, whether or not these documents that are signed by a loved one or the purposes of estate planning and estate administration are taken as valid has to do with the person’s capacity at the time they were signed.
November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness month, which makes it even more important to think about planning ahead. The validity of these documents depends on how they are drafted and the person’s capacity when they are signed. You should not hesitate to reach out to an experienced estate planning attorney to think ahead about long term estate planning issues such as incapacity or planning for potential cognitive diagnoses down the line.
Coping with all the challenges of helping a loved one after a diagnosis is always difficult. Family members may need to step in to assist with care and there can be many common questions about how to help a loved one stay safe and adjust to this new life. While no family wants to find themselves in this situation, taking steps to protect yourself is strongly recommended.
A New Jersey estate planning lawyer can help you if you find your family in this situation.