Estate Planning

Can Dementia Be Prevented?

By Hull and Hull LLP

Medical research has shown that regular physical exercise is effective in delaying the onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.  Other studies have shown that people who continue to exercise not only their bodies but their minds may function better. Doing crosswords, playing board games and participating in leisure activities like dancing and playing musical instruments may reduce the risk of dementia.   

Getting one's legal affairs in order can help prevent both crisis in the event of physical and mental incapacity and the unwelcome intervention of strangers in personal decision-making. By preparing Power of Attorney documents relating to both personal care and property, a person can express his wishes and advance care directives to loved ones. If people are open about the purpose and content of these kinds of documents, important discussions among family members may result that help clarify everyone's expectations, abilities and needs. We have blogged several times on Powers of Attorney in a broad range of contexts. 

Taking simple, inexpensive steps to look after your body, your mind and your rights promises some protection for you and for your family in the event that dementia touches one of you.    

For more information on dementia or Alzheimer's disease and the protection of the vulnerable people suffering from these illnesses, you could contact the Alzheimer's Society of Canada,  the Advocacy Center for the Elderly and The Office of Public Guardian and Trustee. The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) - Ministry of the Attorney General. Finally, there are several blogs and podcasts on our website that offer useful insights into many of the legal and social aspects of these illnesses.

Full post as published by Toronto Estate Law Blog on January 25, 2011 (boomark / email).