UW Dementia Program Focuses on Trusts, Wills

Caring for a loved one living with dementia often means stepping into new roles -- especially when it comes to legal and long-term planning. To help caregivers feel more confident and supported, Wyoming Dementia Together (WDT) plans a session focused on the legal tools that matter most.

Attorney Nancy Norton of Norton Law Office LLC in Jackson -- an expert in estate planning and proactive long-term care planning -- will join WDT to guide caregivers through essential documents such as trusts, wills and powers of attorney Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 10:30 a.m.

The program, "Legal Implications for Caregivers: Trusts and Wills," will be offered via Zoom and is free to attend. Norton emphasizes that early planning can make a tremendous difference.

"The first thing I would ask is whether there was any planning prior to them coming to see me," she explains. "If so, I'd want to check those documents to see if they specifically address the situation of someone with a dementia diagnosis."

She also reassures caregivers that powers of attorney prepared out of state are often still valid.

"Every state has its own laws when it comes to powers of attorney. But, generally, if you have power of attorney for finances, it will be recognized in another state," she says.

WDT offers support services to those caring for people living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia and operates under the direction of the University of Wyoming Center on Aging. The group provides virtual informational programs every other Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Mountain Time. Programs feature guest speakers and allow time for interaction from those who attend online.

WDT support staff members include dementia care professionals, licensed clinical social workers, physical and occupational therapists, and caregivers themselves. Caregivers from throughout Wyoming and surrounding states have benefited.

Future WDT program topics will feature "Driving and Dementia: When is it time to stop -- What comes next," Oct. 21; "Managing Finances in Dementia Care: Support for the Caregiver," Nov. 4; "Living Well with Dementia: Using Technology to Stay Active and Connected," Nov. 18; and "Peace, Love and Joy in the Holiday Season: Caring for Your Loved One and Yourself," Dec. 4. More information is available online at Wyoming Dementia Together Caregiver Network.

For information regarding registration for these online Zoom calls and the other free services offered by WDT, call the Wyoming Center on Aging at (307) 766-2829 or email [email protected].