When your loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, it is important to understand that the progression of both diseases is completely unpredictable. Some people live years with mild symptoms, while others decline quickly. It is imperative to make sure that you waste no time in planning for legal and financial concerns, especially those that enable the patient’s family to make medical, legal and financial decisions once the disease makes those decisions impossible for the patient to make.
Understandable, no one wants to face an uncertain future, or have to choose who will make decisions for them once they cannot do so. However, proper planning can prevent the courts being involved in your health, legal and financial decisions.
By naming a person to make decisions early, your loved one’s care will not fall into the hands of a court appointed guardian. A court-appointed guardian limits planning options and is more costly and time-consuming than having a power of attorney in place.
Don’t fall into the trap of buying a “form” based power of attorney document at your local office supply store. These forms are often deficient and can severely limit your family’s planning abilities.
Contact an experienced elder law attorney as soon as possible so that you have the peace of mind knowing that your loved one will be cared for as he or she wishes.
