Advice for Families When a Loved One is Diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia

It can be devastating for a family when they learn that a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementia. With World Alzheimer’s Day taking place September 21st, Jerry Rothkoff, founder and principal of Rothkoff Law Group (RLG), wants to help families take a deep breath and plan for their future. He said, “It’s important to remember that dementia is a slow process. People have time to assess this new experience and plan for it wisely.”

Rothkoff’s firm, based in the Philadelphia area with headquarters in Cherry Hill, NJ, is an advocate for senior health care. His team includes geriatric care coordinators as well as attorneys because being supportive of family needs is their biggest priority. Rothkoff continues, “Remember that people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementia can still lead productive lives. They may need to revise daily routines, but it’s important to remember that whatever brought them enjoyment before this diagnosis will continue to do so. That might be music, art, watching sports and more. “

As a family begins to plan for future needs, they should consider taking these steps:

• Review current estate planning documents. Is there an updated will? Are financial and health care powers of attorney appointed and is there an advanced directive?
• Investigate housing options for potential future care. Is the intent to keep the loved one at home? If so, is the house ready to accommodate potential future needs?
• Investigate what community services are available. There are many services available through the Alzheimer’s Association and other non-profit advocacy groups.
• Determine what benefits are available including potential benefits through the Veteran’s Administration, Medicare, other health insurance, and Medicaid to assist in paying for potential future care needs.
• Understand there are people to help and no one should feel alone. Seek expert advice to understand options, join a support group, reach out to family and do not be afraid to ask for help.

About World Alzheimer’s Day:

World Alzheimer's Day, September 21st of each year, is a day on which Alzheimer's organizations around the world concentrate their efforts on raising awareness about Alzheimer's and dementia. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of disorders that impairs mental functioning.

About Rothkoff Law Group:

For over a decade, Rothkoff Law Group has been helping clients and their families respond to the legal, financial, physical and psychological challenges associated with the aging process in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Rothkoff Law Group includes hand-selected professionals – attorneys and social workers -- who are passionate and dedicated to serving the elderly and their families. The dedicated members of the firm provide customer service and individualized attention to make this seemingly overwhelming process both empowering and rewarding. Rothkoff Law Group headquarters are located at 425 Route 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 with four other locations in Turnersville and Hamilton, NJ, Trevose, PA and Philadelphia. For more information, email info@rothkofflaw.com or visit www.rothkofflaw.com.