The Last Will and Testament is one of the most basic elements of estate planning, but one that can be challenging to deal with if a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Because of the nature of the disease, it is crucial that the Last Will and Testament be completed as soon after the diagnosis as possible.
A will can be made by anyone who has property, is at least 18 years of age, and is of sound mind and memory. The last part of the requirements can be up for debate in regards to Alzheimer’s patients, which is why timing is so very important.
A Last Will and Testament can:
- Name beneficiaries
- Detail the distribution of assets
- Appoint a guardian for your loved one if he or she become incapacitated
- Appoint a guardian for young or disabled children
- Prevent the estate being drained by legal bills
The will can be changed at any time, as long as your loved one is of sound mind and memory. If a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia has been made, your loved one will need to see an attorney before writing the will, and the attorney may require your loved one’s doctor to discuss the status of your elder family member’s mental capacity to ensure he or she is of sound mind and memory.
