As a Brandon elder lawyer, I often meet families who wish they had recognized the signs of cognitive decline sooner. While occasional forgetfulness is normal with aging, certain patterns might indicate a need for medical evaluation and legal planning.
Key Warning Signs to Watch For
Memory changes that disrupt daily life often appear gradually. Watch for:
- Difficulty managing monthly bills or making basic calculations
- Getting lost while driving to familiar places
- Struggling to follow or participate in conversations
- Making poor decisions about money or personal safety
- Withdrawing from social activities and family gatherings
Why Early Legal Planning Matters
When families notice these signs, taking prompt legal action becomes crucial. As cognitive decline progresses, a person’s legal capacity to make decisions about their care and finances may become compromised.
Essential Legal Steps to Consider
Here are key legal documents to discuss with your loved one while they can still participate in the planning:
- Durable Power of Attorney: Allows your loved one to choose someone to manage their finances and legal matters
- Healthcare Surrogate Designation: Names someone to make medical decisions if they become unable
- Living Will: Documents their wishes for end-of-life care
- Revocable Trust: Can help manage assets and avoid guardianship
The Importance of Timing
As a Brandon elder lawyer, I’ve seen how early planning can help families avoid crisis situations. Once someone loses capacity, their legal options become much more limited and expensive. Starting these conversations early gives your loved one the opportunity to express their wishes and maintain control over their future care.
Taking Action Together
If you notice concerning changes in a loved one’s cognitive function, encourage them to seek medical evaluation. At the same time, contact our office to discuss legal planning options. At the Law Offices of Laurie E. Ohall, PA, we can help guide your family through this challenging transition with compassion and ease.
Don’t wait until a crisis forces your hand. Call us at (813) 438-8503 to schedule a consultation. Together, we can create a plan that protects your loved one’s wishes and provides peace of mind for the whole family.