The First Legal Steps to Take After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Hearing the words “you have Alzheimer’s” is life-changing—for the individual and for their loved ones. While emotions may run high and questions about the future feel overwhelming, one of the most empowering things you can do early on is take legal steps to protect yourself and your family.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we walk alongside families facing this journey. Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean you lose your ability to make decisions right away. In fact, acting quickly ensures your wishes are heard, your assets are protected, and your loved ones are spared unnecessary stress later on.
Here are the most important first legal steps to take after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis:
1. Establish Powers of Attorney
A Financial Power of Attorney and a Health Care Power of Attorney are critical documents. They allow you to appoint someone you trust to make financial and medical decisions if you become unable to do so.
- Acting early ensures you—not the court—decide who will speak for you.
- Without these, your loved ones may need to pursue guardianship, which can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining.
2. Create or Update Your Will and/or Living Trust
If you don’t already have a will or trust, now is the time to create one. If you do, review it carefully to ensure it reflects your current wishes.
- A Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your instructions.
- A Revocable Living Trust can help avoid probate, provide privacy, and set up clear rules for how your assets are managed.
3. Put Health Care Directives (or Advance Directives) in Place
A Health Care Directive (sometimes called an “advance directive” or a “living will”) communicates your preferences about end-of-life care. It guides your family and doctors when you cannot. This is an incredible gift of clarity during what can otherwise be an overwhelming time.
4. Review Beneficiary Designations
Certain assets—like retirement accounts, life insurance, or payable-on-death accounts—pass directly to named beneficiaries, not through your will.
- Make sure these designations are current and aligned with your estate plan.
Outdated beneficiaries (such as a deceased spouse or ex-spouse) can cause painful and unintended results.
5. Consider Long-Term Care and Medicaid Planning
The cost of care in Washington State averages over $12,000 per month. Without planning, a lifetime of savings can be quickly depleted.
- Legal tools such as trusts or strategic transfers can help protect assets while qualifying for Medicaid when the time comes.
- Planning early opens more options for both the person diagnosed and their healthy spouse.
6. Get Organized
Gather important documents in one place, including:
- Property deeds and titles
- Insurance policies
- Bank and investment statements
- Social Security and pension records
- Legal documents (wills, trusts, POAs, directives)
Having everything organized ensures your fiduciaries (the people you’ve chosen to act for you) can step in smoothly when needed.
Facing Alzheimer’s with Strength and Clarity
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is never easy, but taking these first steps can bring relief and a sense of control. Planning early ensures that your voice is heard, your wishes are respected, and your loved ones are protected from unnecessary conflict or financial hardship.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we approach this process with compassion, clarity, and deep respect for your dignity. You don’t have to face these decisions alone—we’re here to help guide the way.
Click here to schedule a consultation with our team.
P.S. Please share this article with friends or family who may be facing Alzheimer’s. Sometimes the greatest gift you can give is the reminder that they don’t have to go through it alone.