The Sooner, the Stronger: Why Timing Is Everything with Alzheimer’s and Estate Planning

More than 7.2 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is only expected to rise. For families, a diagnosis brings emotional weight and a flood of uncertainty. But it also brings urgency.

One of the most important steps you can take after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis? 

Create a clear, legally valid estate plan before cognitive decline limits decision-making ability.

Why Early Action Matters

Estate planning is more than paperwork. It’s peace of mind granted by knowing your wishes will be honored and your loved ones are protected. But for families navigating Alzheimer’s, that peace only comes with early action.

“Creating a plan early is important because it allows the person living with the disease to be part of the process,” explains Kimberly Corbett, a board member with the Alzheimer’s Association Northern California and Northern Nevada Chapter. “Getting a dementia diagnosis can be stressful, but early planning can help alleviate some of that stress by helping to eliminate any guesswork for families and ensuring their wishes are being carried out appropriately.”

For a helpful overview of legal planning steps and who should be involved, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a dedicated guide to planning ahead for legal matters.

What is legal capacity, and why does it matter?

Legal capacity means the ability to understand and make decisions. It's a legal requirement for signing key estate planning documents, such as:

• Power of Attorney

• Advance Health Care Directive / Living Will

• Revocable Living Trust

• Last Will and Testament

Once capacity is lost, families may need to seek guardianship through the courts. This is a lengthy and emotional process that could have been avoided with early planning.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly one-third of people age 85+ are living with Alzheimer’s.

“There are many warning signs for Alzheimer's that loved ones might pick up on,” says Corbett, “such as memory loss that disrupts daily life, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and confusion with time or place. Making legal plans in advance allows families to prepare for long-term care, make financial and property arrangements, and designate decision makers on their behalf.”

Not sure how to recognize the signs or what steps to take? Visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s page on legal planning for individuals with dementia.

The Window to Act: Why Early Estate Planning Is Essential After Diagnosis

Alzheimer’s is progressive, meaning that legal capacity can decline quickly and unpredictably. The earlier you act, the more your loved one can participate in shaping their care, finances, and legacy.

Some families wait for the “right time,” but that window can close faster than expected. Common regrets include delaying too long, assuming symptoms are temporary, or waiting until it's no longer possible to have the person’s input.

“Estate planning is stressful on its own,” says Corbett, “but it's incredibly stressful for caregivers and entire families following a loved one's diagnosis of dementia. Planning for the future while the person living with dementia can still participate is essential to preserving autonomy and reducing anxiety about the future.”

Looking for a guide to start these financial conversations? The Alzheimer’s Association’s financial planning resource is an excellent place to begin.

Key Documents Every Family Should Have in Place

Whether you choose a Will Plan or a more comprehensive Trust Plan, these legal documents help ensure that your loved one’s wishes are clearly stated and legally recognized:

• Revocable Living Trust: Helps avoid probate and maintain privacy.

• Last Will and Testament: Outlines asset distribution and guardianship wishes.

• Power of Attorney: Appoints a trusted decision-maker for financial and legal matters.

• Advance Health Care Directive: Details medical preferences and appoints a healthcare agent.

• HIPAA Authorization: Grants access to medical records for designated individuals.

These are included in Trust & Will’s estate planning solutions: created by attorneys and customized by you.

Planning for Peace of Mind: Not Just for the Person, but for the Family

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis affects more than just one person. Families often face emotional stress, financial uncertainty, and difficult care decisions. Having a legally valid plan in place can reduce that burden and help families move forward with clarity.

“Getting these plans in place helps better prepare you and your family,” Corbett says, “so you can focus on moving forward, getting the care you need, and enjoying life.”

At Trust & Will, our goal is to make that planning process simple, affordable, and accessible, even during life’s most difficult seasons. Our guided platform removes the confusion, walking families through every step with clarity and care.

How to Start the Process

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If your loved one is showing early signs of memory loss or has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, begin the estate planning process now:

1. Talk as a family
Start the conversation early, while your loved one can participate and share their wishes.

2. Choose the right plan
Our Will Plan and Trust Plan both include key documents needed for long-term peace of mind.

3. Create a free account
You can begin the process today at trustandwill.com. We’ll walk you through it, step by step.

If you’re unsure whether your loved one still has legal capacity, consider scheduling time with a licensed attorney. Our Attorney Support service connects you with vetted estate planning attorneys for added guidance.

Alzheimer’s is a diagnosis no one wants, but planning ahead can bring a sense of control during a time of uncertainty. Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the future. It’s about protecting what matters today. Let us help you take the first step.

Trust & Will makes estate planning simple so you can create a customized, state-specific plan from the comfort of your own home. Take our free quiz to discover which estate plan best fits your needs today, to secure your family’s future.

Is there a question here we didn’t answer? Browse more topics in our learn center, visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page,  or chat with our member support!

Trust & Will is an online service providing legal forms and information. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal advice.