What Tony Bennett’s Story Teaches Us About Planning for Dementia
When legendary singer Tony Bennett’s family shared his Alzheimer’s diagnosis publicly, they did something rarely done: they planned early.
Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and related cognitive conditions are difficult to face—but an early diagnosis brings a critical window to protect your loved one’s dignity and future. As loved ones, it gives us time to act.
Why Early Legal Planning Matters for Alzheimer’s in Nebraska
Here in Nebraska, I often meet families once cognitive decline has already begun—and by then, many legal options are severely limited. After capacity is lost, it’s too late to put key protections in place. Here’s what you can’t delay:
1. Durable Power of Attorney for Finances
A Durable Power of Attorney for finances lets your loved one name a trusted agent to handle:
Paying bills and managing banking
Filing taxes
Overseeing property or investments
Without this in place, your family will likely have to pursue a guardianship or conservatorship in Nebraska County Court—a lengthy, expensive, and public process that often brings family stress.
2. Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care & Advance Directive
This legal document gives someone the authority to make medical decisions when your loved one can’t. In Nebraska, it often includes a Living Will outlining end-of-life care preferences—like decisions about life support, feeding tubes, and comfort care.
Without this in place, hospitals rely on default state protocols or court approval, which may not reflect your loved one’s real wishes.
3. Update Wills and Trusts While Capacity Exists
A person needs testamentary capacity to execute a will or contractually amend trusts. If cognitive decline progresses too far, they may lose that ability.
Updating wills or trusts after diagnosis ensures:
Your loved one’s wishes are recorded while they can still understand them
Key assets and beneficiaries are properly named
Transition planning (like guardianship for minor grandchildren) is included
After capacity is lost, new documents may be invalid—and your family may face unintended consequences.
What Happens If You Wait?
Banks often refuse requests based on “mental capacity” concerns
Family conflicts may erupt over who controls finances or medical care
Nebraska guardianship proceedings may be required—services that take months, are costly, and often create emotional strain
Setting an Example: Tony Bennett’s Family
By taking early action, Tony Bennett’s family ensured they had legal tools in place to protect his wishes and his dignity, even as Alzheimer’s progressed. That’s not a luxury—it’s smart planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Durable Power of Attorney?
A legal document that lets someone (the agent) manage finances or health decisions on behalf of the person (the principal), especially after mental capacity declines.
What’s the difference between a financial and healthcare POA?
Financial POA handles your money, bills, and assets
Healthcare POA deals with medical decisions and end-of-life wishes
Both are essential when planning for dementia.
When should these documents be signed?
As soon as dementia or cognitive decline is suspected—while capacity is still intact. Acting early is crucial.
Can I add a “Living Will” to my healthcare Power of Attorney?
Yes. In Nebraska, Advance Directives often include a Living Will to document your end-of-life care preferences.
What is a guardianship or conservatorship in Nebraska?
If paperwork isn’t in place, families must go to court to request the right to make decisions for an incapacitated person. These proceedings are slow, public, and often contentious.