Alzheimer's disease is difficult for the patient as well as the caregiving family. The person you've known for many years begins to change in new and unfamiliar ways. Where can a family turn for help in understanding a loved one diagnosed with Alheimer's disease?

There are many questions and few answers early on in the journey. How do you communicate as the disease progresses in your loved one? What unknown dangers should you learn to avoid? What can you do to not lose patience during a difficult time?

There is help available for the lucky residents of 45 cities and towns in Massachusetts. Alzheimer's Coaching Services is available to help educate concerned families about what to expect and how to handle a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Even better, they operate from a grant and provide their services free of charge.

Many people are intestate and do not even understand what that means. You are intestate if you die without a valid last will and testament. When this happens, the probate court must follow a designated statutory plan for distributing your assets that are subject to its jurisdiction.

The North Carolina legislature revised several laws pertaining to trusts in the last session. Here is a summary of the changes.

Effective October 1, 2007:

Section 39-6.7 - Construction of Conveyances to or by Trusts. This section creates a rule of construction that eliminates the problem that arises when property is conveyed to or from a trust rather than the trustee of the trust.

Everywhere I turn I see slick salesman (some attorneys, some not licensed to practice law) pitching living trusts and annuities. When used correctly, they are both great tools to accomplish certain goals. When used in the wrong situation, then you have a problem. California recently made the news with an action against an insurance and annuity company. I imagine this trend will grow through all the states as the seminar wave sweeps across the country.