Forgetting where one puts their keys is a common occurrence,
especially when juggling the demands of a busy life. But what if it is more? Alzheimer’s or
dementia affects more than 5 million people today, and that number is expected
to rise as the baby boomers age.
Preparing for incapacity, just as preparing for any changing life event such as
getting married, having a baby, etc., is the smart thing to do; and the time to
do it is before you need to.
Having a durable power of attorney (DPOA) is a good first
step, but there are many issues that should be addressed. Who should be named
as the agent, what powers should they have, should a guardian be named, what about
any real estate? What about a will, or should you have a trust? Medical issues, housing issues, and financial issues change as we age. Settling these issues takes careful consideration and working
with an attorney who
specializes in elder law should be helpful.
The TCLLs offer
many materials on elder law,
both electronically and in print. Check out our catalog for print
titles such as Planning for Incapacity, Representing your client
with Alzheimer’s disease, Advising
elder clients in crisis, and Massachusetts elder law. Or for audio format, we
have Elder law under the MUPC & MUTC, Elder law MCLE BasicsPlus!, and Elder
& disability law conference. And as always, if it is not in your local TCLL, we can always get it for you.
