When we talk about guardianship and conservatorship issues, a lot of questions are raised as to what conditions constitute having to necessitate a guardianship or conservatorship. One of these is Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease
A form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative disease that starts slowly and worsens over time. Its symptoms can include difficulty remembering short-term events, language problems, disorientation, mood swings, lack of self-care management or behavioral issues. Gradually, the person’s condition declines, leading to a withdrawal from family and society, and ultimately death.

Because the disease creates debilitating symptoms, family members may need to step in and take over with issues like daily care, medical treatments, and housing. Many times the responsibilities of guardianship and conservatorship are thrust upon an individual, leaving them with many questions and few answers.

New Tests May be Able to Detect Alzheimer’s Early
Although early detection wasn’t always possible in the past, modern medicine has developed a new test that could help predict the progression of Alzheimer’s in at-risk patients. Using saliva samples, researchers from the University of Alberta in Canada were able to detect specific bio-markers that indicated a link to possible cognitive degeneration. With refinement, this test could assist doctors worldwide to better predict a patient’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Pre-Determine Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Estate Planning Needs
Knowing the risks of Alzheimer’s development can help families make calm and rational decisions in advance concerning guardianship, conservatorship, and care for the afflicted family member. Decisions that should include irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, medical directives, and other estate planning decisions.

Contact Your Attorney
At the Law Office of Patricia E. Tichenor, P.L.L.C., attorneys Patricia Tichenor and Camellia Safi specialize in family law and estate planning to assist families in drafting the documents that ensure the safekeeping of long-term care issues involved with Alzheimer’s patients. Don’t wait until the last minute to make these important decisions. Call us today to schedule a consultation. We can provide the answers you need.