Veronica, age 75, is struggling with a
dilemma. Her husband, 10 years older,
is “losing it” as she put it. He is dangerous because he is so forgetful. Mort
is neglecting to pay the bills and make deposits. She was very shocked and
stressed about collection notices and pushy bill collectors on the phone.
Have you noticed that your
elderly loved one is having “memory” problems? If yes, what should you do,
especially when it comes to financial matters? Preparation is key.
A recent article in Forbes considered these question and
others. The article, titled “Is Your Aging Loved One "Losing
It"? Five Strategies to Help You Prepare For Managing the Money,”
also provides some practical pointers, to include:
- Learn about the assets and financial responsibilities
you and your loved one have. - Take time to get to know your loved one’s financial
advisor, accountant, broker and banker. - Do not accept financial illiteracy.
- Accept the potential responsibility you may have one
day as a way of protecting yourself against fraud and financial abuse. - Check your legal documents and be sure that you have
what is needed to take over financial management if that time comes.
Each of these points is
important. However, I will add my own to the mix – don’t ignore the issue.
While it can be hard admitting
that a loved one is “losing it” cognitively, matters are made worse when their
financial matters crash and burn, too. If you already are at that point, then
it may be wise to have a family meeting to coordinate your plan of action
together.
Even closer to home, take a good
look in the mirror. Do you have your own estate planning in place so your loved
ones could take care of your financial matters? Don’t delay, contact
appropriate counsel to ensure your plans are in place.
For more information and articles on
estate planning and elder law topics, please visit our website
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Reference: Forbes
(February 14, 013) “Is Your Aging Loved One "Losing
It"? Five Strategies to Help You Prepare For Managing the Money”