Planning ahead
Planning & Safety for Families
A dementia diagnosis creates urgency around decisions that many families have been putting off. Planning early — while your loved one can still participate — protects everyone and reduces conflict later.
Why planning early matters
Dementia is a progressive disease, which means the window for your loved one to participate meaningfully in decisions about their own care, finances, and legal affairs is limited. Many families wait too long, and find themselves making critical decisions in a crisis — without the guidance of the person most affected.
Starting these conversations early is not morbid — it is an act of love. It ensures that your loved one's wishes are known and respected, and it protects the entire family from unnecessary conflict and financial hardship.
Legal planning essentials
These legal documents should be in place as early as possible after a diagnosis. An elder law attorney can help ensure they are properly executed.
Durable power of attorney
Designates someone to make financial and legal decisions on behalf of your loved one when they are no longer able to do so. 'Durable' means it remains in effect even after the person loses capacity.
Healthcare proxy / medical power of attorney
Designates someone to make medical decisions when your loved one cannot. This person should understand their values and wishes deeply.
Living will / advance directive
Documents your loved one's wishes about end-of-life care, including preferences about resuscitation, feeding tubes, and other life-sustaining treatments.
POLST / MOLST form
A physician-signed medical order (called POLST, MOLST, or similar depending on your state) that translates advance care wishes into actionable medical instructions. More immediately binding than a living will.
Will and trust
Ensures that assets are distributed according to your loved one's wishes. A trust can also help manage assets and avoid probate. Consult an estate planning attorney.
Financial planning
Gather financial documents
Locate bank accounts, investment accounts, insurance policies, Social Security information, pension documents, and property records. Create a master list stored in a secure location.
Understand benefits and coverage
Review Medicare coverage, any supplemental insurance, and long-term care insurance if applicable. Understand what is and is not covered for dementia care.
Plan for long-term care costs
Dementia care is expensive. The average cost of memory care in the United States exceeds $5,000 per month. Understanding your options — in-home care, adult day programs, memory care facilities — and their costs is essential.
Protect against financial exploitation
People with dementia are at high risk for financial exploitation. Consider setting up automatic bill pay, simplifying accounts, and monitoring for unusual transactions.
Home safety
Most people with dementia live at home, at least in the early and middle stages. These modifications can reduce fall risk, prevent wandering, and support independence.
Fall prevention
- Remove throw rugs and clutter from walkways.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and near the toilet.
- Ensure adequate lighting throughout the home, especially at night.
- Consider a medical alert device.
Wandering prevention
- Install door alarms or door knob covers on exterior doors.
- Consider a GPS tracking device or ID bracelet.
- Register with the Alzheimer's Association's MedicAlert + Safe Return program.
- Notify neighbors and local police of the situation.
Kitchen and bathroom safety
- Set the water heater to 120°F or lower to prevent scalding.
- Lock up medications, cleaning products, and sharp objects.
- Consider a stove knob cover or automatic shut-off device.
- Remove or lock the bathroom door from the outside if needed.
Driving and dementia
Driving is often one of the most difficult conversations families face. Dementia affects the judgment, reaction time, and spatial awareness needed for safe driving — but many people with dementia resist giving up their keys because driving represents independence.
Warning signs that driving may no longer be safe include getting lost on familiar routes, difficulty with lane changes, running stop signs, and increased confusion while driving. A driving evaluation by an occupational therapist can provide an objective assessment.
This page provides general educational information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your situation.