September Brings In A Change Of Season And World Alzheimer’s Month

Caregivers of Elders with Dementia Have a Special Role

Around the world more than 50 million people suffer as a result of dementia. This dementia could be age-related. Or it could be the result of Alzheimer’s Disease, which affects 50-60% of sufferers. This degenerative brain condition is devastating. It robs a person of their precious memories, competency, comprehension and behavioral awareness. Typically this is a slow decline taking place over years.

Like all forms of mental illness, Alzheimer’s and dementia are still misunderstood by the general population. And they are shrouded by stigma due to ignorance of these conditions.

Our firm proudly recognizes caregivers of elders with dementia and promotes September as being World Alzheimer’s Month.

September 21st is designated as World Alzheimer’s Day. The event has been running since 2012, the aim of which is to raise awareness and challenge the negative notions that contribute to its continued misunderstanding.

Caregivers and family members suffer tremendously from this slow burn of decline when a loved one is diagnosed with any form of dementia.

Everything changes, and it’s heartbreaking to watch memories slowly fade. Those of us with loved ones living with dementia must learn to adapt to these changes. It requires patience, understanding, and ongoing adjustment. Unlike the changing seasons, dementia does not improve—it progresses over time.

My mother has vascular dementia, and it has deeply affected our relationship. I still speak with her every day, but our conversations are often repetitive and limited. She frequently responds with just a few words. I miss the connection we once had. It’s especially painful because she is still physically here, yet so much of who she was has changed.

But it is this personal experience that has created my passion as an estate planning and asset protection attorney.

I strongly advocate for creating legal documents while a loved one is still fully competent. These documents should clearly name decision-makers and outline wishes, intentions, and instructions. They provide clarity and peace of mind for families as needs increase and capacity declines.

I encourage you to learn more about dementia and how it affects communication and daily life. Many organizations and resources can help you better support and connect with your loved one.

Just as important, take proactive steps to ensure your loved one is legally protected. Make sure trusted agents are in place to act when needed. Greater awareness leads to better understanding—and more compassion.

   

Looking to find an experienced estate lawyer in the Georgia area who is skilled in asset protection and estate plan preparation? Shannon Pawley is an attorney in Georgia with expertise in estate planning and asset protection. Shannon can provide assistance with creating an estate plan to include making a will and how to establish a trust properly. If you have questions about asset protection or questions about making an estate plan, reach out to Shannon and she will be glad to help answer all the estate planning questions you might have!