We live during an era when the population of the United States is aging very rapidly. The baby boomer generation is starting to get up there in years, and this is having a very big impact within the elder law community.
As we all know Alzheimer’s disease is something that for the most part impacts people after they reach an advanced age. So, given the aging of the population a significant increase in Alzheimer’s cases is expected in the coming years.
The reach of this disease is vast indeed; 13% of people who have achieved senior citizen status suffer from it. And, with each passing year the likelihood of contracting the disease increases, with some four out of every 10 individuals who are in their mid-to-late 80s suffering from Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is number six on the list of leading causes of death in the United States. Among the 10 most common causes of death it is the only one that cannot be prevented, effectively treated, or slowed down (according to the Alzheimer’s Association).
Research is always ongoing and we can only hope that a cure is found. Some good news has circulated recently about a diagnostic technique that may well enable medical professionals to identify the onset of Alzheimer’s by observing the way that at-risk individuals walk.
Brain shrinkage goes along with Alzheimer’s, and this invariably leads to a slower pace and shorter steps when a sufferer is walking.
When you find out just how common Alzheimer’s is you can see why incapacity planning is important. If you have not yet discussed the legal aspects of incapacity planning, take action right now to arrange for a consultation with a seasoned Covington KY-area elder law attorney.
John’s practice focuses on the use of Wills and Living Trusts in Estate Planning to help individuals protect their families and preserve their legacies after their deaths, but his practice also focuses on the critical issues of protecting individuals with dementia or other diminished capacity, assisting individuals in qualifying for Medicaid and other government benefits to offset the costs of long-term care, and providing special needs planning.
John is admitted to practice law in North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Ohio, and he is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- What You Need to Know about the Medicaid Look-Back Rule - January 3, 2023
- How to Pass Down Your Legacy in Your Estate Plan - October 3, 2022
- Practical Steps to Take after Receiving a Terminal Diagnosis - September 30, 2022
