An Alzheimer’s diagnosis brings unique challenges, but it also serves as a reminder to make the most of the time you have. While every individual’s experience with the disease is different, taking proactive legal steps now will provide clarity and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Regardless of when you receive your diagnosis, beginning your estate planning as soon as possible is essential. The sooner you establish your plans, the more control you maintain over your affairs. At Munro & Crawford, we are here to guide you through this process with professionalism and care, ensuring your wishes are legally protected.
Understand Your Diagnosis and What It Means
Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Taking time to fully understand the condition, its progression, and what changes to expect can help you prepare effectively. Early planning allows you to make key decisions while you still have full legal capacity, reducing stress and uncertainty in the future.
Now is also a good time to communicate with your loved ones. Consider writing letters or recording messages to share memories and ensure your wishes are clearly understood. If you have specific preferences for how your estate should be distributed, documenting them early can prevent potential disputes later.
Start Your Estate Planning Early
Estate planning ensures that your financial and personal affairs are handled according to your wishes. Many individuals already have a general idea of how they want to distribute their assets. Taking action while you have the legal capacity to make decisions ensures your estate will be handled as you intend.
Planning early also allows you to personally communicate your wishes to beneficiaries. You may even choose to give certain sentimental items to loved ones now, creating meaningful moments together.
Appoint a Power of Attorney, an Executor, and a Representative
A crucial step in estate planning is appointing trusted individuals to manage your affairs. You will need to designate:
- A Power of Attorney (POA) – This individual is authorized to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapable of managing your affairs. A POA does not grant authority over medical decisions.
- A Representation Agreement (RA) Representative – In British Columbia, an RA allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare and personal care decisions for you if you are unable to do so. This ensures that your medical treatment aligns with your wishes.
- An Executor – The person responsible for administering your estate after you pass away, ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your will.
You can choose one individual to handle all roles or appoint different people for each. Having separate individuals can provide checks and balances, helping to ensure your affairs are managed fairly and responsibly.
Consult with an Estate Planning Lawyer
Before finalizing any estate planning documents, consulting with an experienced lawyer is essential. At Munro & Crawford, we specialize in wills, powers of attorney, and estate administration. We can help ensure your documents are legally sound, reducing the risk of future disputes.
Legal representation also provides peace of mind—once your estate plan is legally secured, your wishes will be protected, even if circumstances change. Disputes over wills and estates can delay inheritance for years; proactive planning prevents such complications.
Decide How to Distribute Your Possessions
Consider making a list of your personal belongings and who you wish to inherit them. You may be surprised by what holds sentimental value for family members.
Discussing these preferences with your loved ones can ensure they receive meaningful keepsakes while minimizing potential disagreements. Providing your lawyer with a duplicate list ensures these wishes remain documented.
Consider Gifting Sentimental Items Now
If there are specific heirlooms or sentimental items you wish to pass down, you may choose to give them to the intended recipients now. This eliminates any uncertainty and allows you to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Some families choose to present such gifts during birthdays or holidays, making the moment even more special.
Finalize Your Will and Funeral Arrangements
Prearranging your funeral and associated expenses can ease the burden on your family. This may include purchasing a burial plot or cremation services in advance, as well as specifying your funeral preferences in your will.
Your lawyer can guide you through the process of drafting a legally binding Last Will and Testament, ensuring your estate is handled as you wish. With everything planned in advance, your family can focus on what matters most—supporting one another.
Take Care of Yourself First
While estate planning is important, prioritizing your well-being is just as essential. Allow yourself time to process your diagnosis, spend meaningful time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
At Munro & Crawford, we are committed to supporting you through this process with compassion and legal expertise. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we encourage you to reach out to our team for guidance on securing your future. Contact the estate planning professionals of Munro and Crawford today and let us know how we can be of service.
