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Estate Planning Pointers for People Diagnosed with Dementia

On Behalf of | May 20, 2020 | Firm News |

We know there is so much to deal with for all of us right now. From social distancing to quarantining to caring for aging parents who cannot care for themselves, there may be a lot on your plate.

Despite what we are facing, life continues. You may find yourself dealing with new issues and possibly new health care diagnoses. We find this may hold especially true if you, or a loved one, was recently diagnosed with dementia.

We know you may be worried or afraid of what the future may bring. The good news is that you may be able to start planning for the future, or amending your current plans, now. The only prerequisite for doing so is legal capacity. You can start creating or changing your estate plan immediately with your Florida attorney if you are aware of your situation, can make sound decisions, and understand the consequences. The following are some pointers for doing so that you may find helpful.

1. Learn more about the Florida power of attorney. Most people have heard of a power of attorney and understand it can be important. Before you create one, it is important to understand the different types. First, this document allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf when you can no longer do so. This can include allowing someone to make certain financial decisions or engage in certain transactions on your behalf if you cannot do so, and even plan for long-term care.

2. Learn about planning with wills. In the context of Florida estate planning, there are also different types of wills. These are traditional wills, and living wills. The former, or last will and testament, is the legal mechanism that facilitates the transfer of your assets to people and/or to your family after you pass away. The latter, the living will, allows you to provide written instructions for family members and health care providers in specific end of life conditions.

3. Seek out legal advice from experienced professionals. Unfortunately, there is so much misinformation out there right now. Our estate planning team understands not only what you need now, but for the long-term. When you work with us, we can easily evaluate your situation, help you identify your goals and objectives, and come up with a strategy that is best for you.

We know you may have questions and want to ask them. Especially with a new diagnosis of dementia, planning sooner rather than later is critical. To get started, do not wait to contact our law firm to schedule a remote consultation today or at any point in the future.