At Axis Estate Planning, we recognize the emotional and practical challenges families face when confronting a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis. As of 2025, Alzheimer’s disease continues to be the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60% to 80% of all dementia cases worldwide. In the United States alone, an estimated 7.2 million adults aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia. That number is expected to nearly double—reaching 13.8 million by 2060—unless a medical breakthrough changes the course of this disease.
This increase is far more than a statistic. It represents a rising public health challenge that affects entire families, communities, and the way we prepare for the future.
Dementia: The Broader Category
Dementia is not a single disease—it is a term used to describe a wide range of cognitive impairments that interfere with daily life. These conditions impact memory, language, judgment, and reasoning. Dementia includes several disorders, such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Symptoms can include confusion, forgetfulness, communication difficulties, and impaired decision-making. At Axis Estate Planning, we often help families understand what these symptoms may mean in both medical and legal contexts.
Alzheimer’s: A Leading Cause of Cognitive Decline
Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition. It is caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in and around brain cells, resulting in a gradual decline in memory, behavior, and physical function.
Certain populations are more affected than others:
- Older adults: Approximately 74% of people with Alzheimer’s are age 75 or older
- Women: Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women
- Communities of color: Older Black Americans are about twice as likely, and older Hispanic Americans about 1.5 times as likely, to develop Alzheimer’s compared to older white Americans
These disparities make it even more critical to ensure early diagnosis, proper care access, and culturally aware legal support. At Axis Estate Planning, we are committed to helping all families navigate these sensitive challenges with care and respect.
The Impact on Caregivers
Dementia doesn’t just affect those diagnosed—it affects the caregivers who support them every day. Family members, often unpaid and untrained, carry the emotional and physical burden of care. While many individuals with dementia prefer to remain at home, caregiving can become increasingly demanding.
Thankfully, many senior living facilities now offer memory care units, which include:
- Secure environments tailored for dementia patients
- Structured, memory-enhancing activities
- Personalized care plans
- Support with daily living in a way that preserves dignity
Axis Estate Planning frequently advises clients on choosing facilities that align with a loved one’s care needs and long-term goals.
The Legal Side of Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Planning ahead is crucial when facing a progressive diagnosis like Alzheimer’s. As the condition worsens, individuals may lose the ability to make legal or financial decisions. Establishing foundational legal documents early—while your loved one is still capable of making decisions—ensures that their wishes are respected and their assets are protected.
Essential documents include:
- Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare Directives
- Living Wills
- Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts
These tools not only offer peace of mind but also reduce stress during future medical or legal emergencies. Axis Estate Planning works closely with families to craft plans that reflect each person’s values, care preferences, and financial realities.
Let Axis Estate Planning Help You Plan with Confidence
If you or someone you love is facing a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis, you don’t have to navigate the legal and care-related complexities alone. At Axis Estate Planning, we provide thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help families secure the support their loved ones need—while protecting their legacy and future.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
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