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Dementia: A Lawyer's Heartbreaking Last Day in Court
Recently, I read a powerful article in Boston Magazine that made me stop and think. It shares the story of a lawyer named Leslie Bloomenthal, who dedicated his life to his legal career but faced the harsh reality of dementia in his final years. The story is both heartbreaking and deeply personal for me—not just as an estate planning attorney, but as someone who has seen firsthand the impact that dementia can have on both the person affected and their loved ones.
Leslie was a lifelong lawyer who took pride in his sharp mind, his dedication to his clients, and his commitment to justice. But as dementia began to set in, his mental abilities slowly started to fade. The first signs appeared around the time of his retirement, but like many families, his loved ones were hesitant to face what was happening. After all, this was a man who had always kept it together, who had always been in control.
A Lawyer’s Battle with Dementia
What struck me most about Leslie’s story was how he held on to his identity as a lawyer, even as dementia began to change his mind. In one particularly touching moment, Leslie insisted he had a trial to attend—a case that only existed in his altered perception of reality. Despite knowing he had retired and had no active cases, his family, unable to convince him otherwise, went along with his plan and took him to the courthouse where he had spent so many years practicing law.
I can only imagine the pain and confusion his family felt in this situation. The article describes how Leslie’s son, Andrew, tried to gently guide his father through this illusion, eventually getting help from a compassionate court clerk who played along, telling Leslie he had won his case. It’s a bittersweet moment, a small win in a battle that was already lost.
As an attorney, Leslie’s story really hits home for me. It’s a stark reminder that no matter how sharp our minds are, or how much we’ve achieved in our careers, we are all vulnerable to the effects of time and illness. For Leslie, the courtroom wasn’t just a place of work—it was a part of his identity, a symbol of his life’s purpose. Dementia didn’t just take away his memory; it took away at least some of the essence of who he was.
Why This Story Matters to Me
This story resonates with me because, like Leslie, I’ve spent my life in the legal profession. I understand the pride that comes with being an attorney, the sense of responsibility we feel toward our clients, and the satisfaction of a job well done. But I also understand the importance of planning for the future—something Leslie, unfortunately, didn’t have the chance to do for himself.
Leslie’s story is a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. As an estate planning attorney, my job is to help people prepare for the unexpected, to ensure their wishes are followed and their families are protected, even when they can no longer speak for themselves. I’ve seen too many families torn apart by the emotional and financial strain that dementia can cause. It’s a cruel disease that doesn’t just steal memories but also erodes the very foundation of a person’s life.
Still, thinking about walking into my office every morning, it’s hard to face the fact that one of these times will be the last time. The last time I sit down to look at my upcoming appointments for the day, the last time deciding what marketing content to write, the last time I check in with Nicole about where our next seminar is, and laugh together about something silly. It’s a tough reality to face. Who am I if I’m not a lawyer?
The Need to Plan Ahead
Dementia is unpredictable. One day, you might be completely clear-minded; the next, you could be lost in confusion. That’s why it’s so important to have the right legal documents in place—things like a Power of Attorney (POA) and a Health Care Proxy (HCP) that let you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you. Without these, your family could be forced into a long and costly court process to gain control over your affairs, all while dealing with the emotional stress of watching a loved one fade away.
Leslie’s story highlights the need for early planning. His family was left to deal with his decline without the legal protections that could have made things easier for them. It’s a situation I see all too often—families in crisis, scrambling to put plans in place when it’s already too late.
Why This Is Important Now
The Boston Magazine article serves as a wake-up call—not just for those of us in the legal profession, but for everyone. Dementia doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone, at any time, no matter how prepared you think you are. But there are steps you can take now to protect yourself and your loved ones.
At Monteforte Law, we specialize in helping families plan for the future. We understand the challenges that come with aging, especially when cognitive decline is a factor. Our goal is to make sure you have the legal safeguards in place to protect your assets, your health, and your dignity, no matter what life brings.
Leslie Bloomenthal’s story is a reminder that we can’t take our health—or our minds—for granted. It’s a call to action for all of us to take control of our future while we still can. Whether you’re just starting to think about your estate plan or you need to update an existing one, now is the time to act. Let’s work together to ensure your legacy is protected, your wishes are followed, and your family is cared for, no matter what challenges lie ahead.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you or a loved one is facing the uncertainty of dementia, it's crucial to plan ahead. Want to ensure your aging parents are taken care of? Find clear answers to these pressing questions and more in my free book, ‘Planning Ahead’. This invaluable resource breaks down everything you need to know in plain English.
Download your free copy today here and start planning for a secure future!
