Ideally, your loved one will have planned for the possibility they may develop dementia before any symptoms begin. This would often involve working with a lawyer and financial planner to make the necessary decisions while the person was still able to do so. Planning ahead not only helps the person with dementia, it frequently decreases stress and conflict that families may experience when documentation about an estate or other issues aren’t created in advance. The National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Aging (NIH/NIA) provides an online reference about legal and financial planning for people with dementia.
The National Elder Law Foundation certifies practitioners of elder and specials needs law. These experts are experienced with the legal aspects of dementia and other problems with the elderly. They are often able to help to establish wills & trust, power of attorney, long term care planning, estate planning, & guardianships. Discounted or even free services may also be available to those who qualify.
The National Association of Personal Financial Planners identifies financial planners who can help with planning for the financial aspects of aging.
Most persons who have dementia or another neurodegenerative disease are over 65 years old, and most of them qualify for Medicare. Private advisors and Texas Health and Human Services are available to assist Texans with navigating the complexities of Medicare.
Legal
Free services (for those who qualify)
Elder Law Attorney/Estate planning Attorney
- Barnes Lipscomb Stewart & Ott
- Barnett & Leuty
- Blazier Law
- Garrett law firm
- Law Office of Jamie Etzkorn
- Rainey & Rainey
- Slaton Schauer
- StoneMyers Law
Financial
- Family Eldercare- Financial & Housing Stability
- National Association of Personal Financial Planners
- Paying for Senior Care
- Senior Advisors
- Wiser advisor