How Can I Protect My Family If I’m Diagnosed with Dementia?
In 2022, the world learned that actor Bruce Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects speech and language. A year later, his family shared that his condition had progressed to frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare brain disorder that impacts behavior, communication, and decision-making.
Willis’ diagnosis was heartbreaking—but it also serves as a powerful reminder that incapacity can strike anyone at any time. Planning for it isn’t just smart—it’s one of the most compassionate things you can do for your loved ones.
What Is Incapacity Planning?
Bruce Willis’ diagnosis highlights the importance of planning for the possibility of incapacity. No one expects to lose the ability to make their own decisions, but conditions like dementia, strokes, or traumatic brain injuries can strip people of that ability. Incapacity planning ensures that if you become unable to make financial or medical decisions for yourself due to illness or injury, your wishes are honored and your loved ones aren’t left overwhelmed or conflicted.
It includes legal documents that fall into two main categories: financial and medical.
Financial Documents
Durable Financial Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to handle your financial matters if you become incapacitated.
Revocable Living Trust: Helps manage your assets and avoid court involvement if you can no longer do so yourself.
Medical Documents
Living Will: States your preferences for medical treatment in situations like terminal illness or permanent unconsciousness.
Health Care Power of Attorney: Appoints someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)/Do Not Intubate (DNI): Specifies your preferences for emergency interventions like CPR or ventilator use.
HIPAA Release: Gives chosen individuals access to your medical information when needed.
Having these documents in place reduces uncertainty during emotional moments and prevents confusion, guilt, or disagreements among family members.
A Lesson in Preparedness
While Bruce Willis’ family hasn’t shared his planning details, their unified response suggests they were prepared. Their example shows the importance of making these decisions ahead of time—when you still can.
Estate planning is more than a legal task—it’s a way to show love and respect for your family. Talk with your loved ones about your wishes, and then work with your elder law attorney to put those wishes in writing.
Because when the unexpected happens, the greatest gift you can give your family isn’t just your guidance—it’s a plan that speaks for you when you no longer can.
