A Parkinson’s diagnosis changes everything. Not just for the individual receiving it, but for the people who love them. There is fear, yes. But there is also time. With that time comes the opportunity to make meaningful decisions that protect independence, dignity, and peace of mind.
Planning ahead is not about expecting the worst. It is about making sure your future reflects your values, your wishes, and the life you have built. At Allen Poucher Law, we help individuals and families create long term care plans that provide confidence, not chaos.
When Parkinson’s enters the conversation, estate planning becomes more than just legal documents. It becomes a roadmap that guides healthcare decisions, financial transitions, and the gradual shift in roles within the family. That roadmap can include advance directives, powers of attorney, living wills, and long term care strategies tailored to your needs and resources.
Many families are surprised to learn that Medicare does not typically cover long term care beyond short-term rehabilitation. That means nursing home costs, assisted living, and in-home care can fall squarely on the family. Medicaid planning, veteran’s benefits, and long term care insurance are all tools we evaluate based on your timeline and eligibility.
We also help clients review and update their existing estate plans. A Parkinson’s diagnosis may affect choices around trustees, agents, and guardians. It may also raise concerns about asset protection or how to communicate evolving wishes to loved ones. These are not just financial decisions. They are emotional ones, and they deserve a safe, compassionate space to be worked through.
Perhaps most importantly, we emphasize communication. The earlier families begin to talk openly, the easier it becomes to make decisions with clarity. We help clients prepare not only the documents but the conversations; because planning is not just about paperwork. It is about people.
At Allen Poucher Law, we believe in planning that honors your voice, your goals, and your story. Parkinson’s may bring change, but with the right guidance, it does not have to bring fear.