One of the most devastating health diagnoses anyone can get is to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. To be told that you are suffering from a progressive disease for which there is no cure that will rob you of your mind, your memories, and your ability to take care of yourself perhaps many years before it ultimately takes your life is a terrifying future to face. It is also devastating for the family who will have to prepare themselves for the inevitability of the loved one being unable to share fully in their life events or even recognize them at times. The family will also be responsible for the care of the person afflicted as he continuously loses more of his ability to make good decisions and safely live independently.

If there is any bright side at all, it is that when the diagnosis is made early, there are treatments and mental exercise techniques available that can help slow the progression of the disease. Forewarning is also forearming so that plans can be made for the future while the afflicted individual can still make those decisions for himself, his family, and his estate. One of the first things that should be done after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is to seek the assistance of an attorney who specializes in elder law where issues such as health care, finances, estate issues, and more can be discussed and plans can be put into place.

Some of the issues that need to be addressed include powers of attorney and guardianship to prepare for the time when the individual can no longer make good decisions for his life and care. A power of attorney given to a trusted family member or friend will allow the individual’s financial affairs to be seamlessly handled and decisions made in his behalf. Plans need also be in place for the estate, long-term care, tax issues, trusts, and any other issues that require decisions to be made while the individual can still make them. Covering these issues and more while the mind is still clear and sharp will help to ensure that the individual’s desires for his future and care are met. It also takes that pressure off of family members.

An experienced elder law attorney understands the issues that the individual with Alzheimer’s is facing to help make those plans to minimize some of the problems he and his family will be dealing with. Even though the disease will take its toll in time, that time left can be spent in the most positive way possible.