Planning for Vulnerable Adults in the Family

September is Suicide Prevention Month—a reminder that our loved ones’ well-being involves more than just their physical health or financial stability. For families, this month is also an opportunity to reflect on how estate planning can provide support, protection, and dignity for vulnerable adults who may be living with mental health challenges, disabilities, or other struggles that make them more at risk.

Why Vulnerable Adults Need Special Consideration

Estate planning isn’t just about transferring wealth. It’s about protecting the people you love most. When an adult child, sibling, or even a parent struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, or diminished capacity, traditional planning may not be enough. Without safeguards, well-meaning inheritances or decision-making authority could cause more harm than good.

Tools to Protect Loved Ones

Thoughtful planning can make a significant difference:

• Specialized Trusts: Tailored trusts, such as a Supplemental Needs Trust, can protect eligibility for important benefits while ensuring funds are used in ways that truly support the individual.
  
• Carefully Chosen Decision-Makers: Selecting the right trustee, power of attorney, or health care agent is critical. These roles should be filled by people who understand the family member’s needs and who can act with compassion and accountability.
  
• Circle of Care: Building a plan that incorporates not only legal documents but also practical guidance—such as a letter of intent, a care roadmap, or including professional advisors—helps ensure continuity of care and consistency in support.
  

The Human Side of Planning

Families often avoid these conversations because they feel overwhelming, or because discussing mental health feels too personal. But the reality is that planning offers peace of mind. It transforms fear into proactive steps, ensuring your vulnerable loved one isn’t left unsupported in a crisis.

“Planning is more than paperwork—it’s a lifeline.”

Taking the Next Step

If you have a vulnerable adult in your family, now is the time to think about how your plan reflects their needs. A well-designed estate plan can protect their dignity, preserve their benefits, and create a safety net of people and resources they can rely on.

If you’d like guidance in building this kind of protection for your family, we’re here to help you start the conversation and design a plan that offers lasting peace of mind.