Modern Estate Planning Blog

Featuring Alexandra Weisgerber, Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California, in conversation with Elder Law Attorney Heather Chubb

When a loved one begins showing signs of memory loss, families often don’t know where to turn—or how to bring up their concerns. To offer guidance, elder law attorney Heather Chubb sat down with Alexandra Weisgerber of the Alzheimer’s Association to talk about what to watch for, how to start the conversation, and what resources can support both patients and caregivers.

What’s the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
Heather Chubb: “Let’s start with the basics—how do you explain the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?”

Alexandra Weisgerber: “Dementia is an umbrella term for a set of symptoms like memory loss and confusion. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form—it makes up about 70% of all dementia cases. There are other types too, like Lewy body, vascular, and frontotemporal dementia, each with different symptoms and progression.”

What Are Early Signs to Watch For?
Heather: “What should families be looking out for?”

Alexandra: “One of the earliest and most noticeable signs is memory loss that disrupts daily life—like forgetting appointments, missing important tasks, or getting confused in familiar places. Other signs include trouble with problem-solving, difficulty completing multi-step tasks, or confusion with time and place. It’s about noticing changes from a person’s normal baseline.”

How Do You Bring Up Memory Concerns with a Loved One?
Heather: “That’s such a hard conversation to have. What’s the best way to approach it?”

Alexandra: “Come from a place of compassion. Avoid saying things like ‘you always forget.’ Instead, try something like, ‘I noticed you mentioned the grocery store moved, but it hasn’t—let’s talk to the doctor together.’ Early diagnosis is important—it might be dementia, but it could also be something treatable, like a medication side effect or depression.”

What About Caregiver Burnout?
Heather: “Let’s talk about caregivers—they’re often overwhelmed. What can help?”

Alexandra: “First, accept help. If someone offers to bring a meal or mow your lawn, say yes. Caregivers also need to keep their own medical appointments and take breaks—respite care is available. We work with groups like Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center and offer funding for respite programs. Support groups also help caregivers connect and learn from each other.”

What Legal & Financial Planning Should Be in Place?
Heather: “Once there’s a diagnosis, what legal and financial steps should families take?”

Alexandra: “The sooner, the better. You want to have conversations early while your loved one can still be involved. Get powers of attorney for health care and finances in place. Talk about care wishes. And revisit your estate plan every few years—things change. If you wait too long, your loved one might lose the legal capacity to make decisions.”

How Can the Alzheimer’s Association Help?
Heather: “What support does your organization offer?”

Alexandra: “We’re a nonprofit, and everything we offer is free. Our 24/7 Helpline is a lifeline—people call at 2 a.m. when their loved one is trying to go to a ‘night shift’ they no longer have. We offer support groups for caregivers and for people in early stages, educational programs, and help finding respite care, in-home support, and adult day centers. You don’t have to have all the answers—just call us, and we’ll walk with you.”

Need Alzheimer’s or Dementia Support?
Whether you’re noticing early signs or are deep into the caregiving journey, the Alzheimer’s Association is here to help.

Call 24/7 Helpline: 1‑800‑272‑3900
Visit: https://www.alz.org/norcal

Need help planning for long-term care or legal decisions?
Contact Chubb Law Firm PC to book a discovery call (916) 241-9661.

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