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
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
Finding Peace, Purpose, and Empowerment Through Estate Planning
Receiving a terminal diagnosis is a life-altering moment—one that comes with a surge of emotions and an avalanche of uncertainty. But in the midst of the unknown, there is a path to clarity. With thoughtful estate planning, you can take meaningful steps to protect your loved ones, ensure your wishes are honored, and create a lasting legacy of love and intention.
At Axis Estate Planning, we are here to walk beside you—offering trusted guidance, compassionate support, and the legal tools you need to plan with confidence.
Secure Your Legacy with a Review of Your Current Plan
If you already have an estate plan in place, this is the time to revisit it. Wills, trusts, and other essential documents should reflect your current wishes and the unique needs of your family. Small updates can make a significant impact—ensuring your assets pass exactly how you intend and minimizing any confusion or delays for your loved ones.
Beneficiary designations—often overlooked—should also be reviewed. These are critical on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial assets. One mismatched name or outdated form can derail even the most well-crafted estate plan.
And if you have a trust, don’t forget to fund it properly. This means retitling or transferring intended assets into the trust’s name, ensuring they are managed and distributed according to your instructions.
Empower Your Advocates with Powers of Attorney
When facing serious illness, making sure you have powers of attorney in place is essential. A financial power of attorney gives someone you trust the ability to manage your finances, pay bills, and handle property if you become unable to do so.
Equally important is a healthcare power of attorney—someone who can speak for you when you can’t speak for yourself. Pair this with a living will that outlines your wishes around medical care, especially in regard to life-sustaining measures. This relieves your loved ones from the heavy burden of guessing what you would want.
Explore Trust Strategies That Fit Your Family’s Needs
Depending on your circumstances, various trusts can offer security and peace of mind. A revocable living trust can help avoid probate and provide smooth asset management. If you have minor children or dependents with special needs, a trust ensures their care is handled with compassion and financial responsibility.
In some cases, irrevocable trusts can offer protections for long-term care planning and Medicaid eligibility. Every family is unique—working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help tailor the right approach for your situation.
Prepare for Long-Term Care While Protecting What Matters
If nursing home care may be needed, Medicaid planning becomes a crucial part of your estate strategy. While the rules are complex, there are ways to preserve assets for a spouse or family while still qualifying for benefits. Proactive planning can help prevent unnecessary financial strain and give your family more security during a difficult time.
Create a Legacy of Love and Intention
Estate planning isn’t only about legal documents—it’s about the memories, messages, and meaning you leave behind. Whether it’s charitable giving, writing a letter of wishes, or recording a heartfelt message for your loved ones, these personal touches can be more valuable than any asset.
They are a reflection of who you are, what you believe, and how you wish to be remembered.
Let Axis Estate Planning Help You Find Peace of Mind
While it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, delaying action can create more stress for your loved ones down the road. At Axis Estate Planning, we help individuals and families navigate these decisions with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Let us help you put the pieces in place—so you can focus on what truly matters: cherishing time with those you love and embracing the comfort of knowing your wishes will be honored.
📍 Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
📞 Call Us: (248) 251-1001
🌐 Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Let us help you plan for your family’s future with confidence and peace of mind.
