Steps for Hope: How Estate Planning Can Support Families with Alzheimer’s
By Kianna C. Parviz, Esq.
On March 14, 2026, the Law Stein Anderson team will once again join Walk4ALZ, an event hosted by Alzheimer’s Orange County. More than 50 colleagues, friends, and family members will walk together to support the more than 150,000 Orange County residents currently living with memory loss.
For our team, Walk4ALZ is much more than a walk or fundraiser. Many of us have parents, grandparents, or loved ones living with Alzheimer’s, and every week we work with clients navigating its challenges.
This walk, attended by countless families, reminds us how common memory loss and incapacity are, and why early estate and incapacity planning are important for everyone, at any age.
Alzheimer’s affects more than memory. It changes daily life, decision-making, and family dynamics. Proactive estate and incapacity planning can provide clarity, protect loved ones, and bring peace of mind during an already difficult time.
Why Early Planning Matters
Alzheimer’s is progressive, and legal capacity can decline quickly and unpredictably. Acting early allows your loved one to participate in planning, express their wishes, and appoint trusted decision-makers. Waiting too long can force families into court-supervised conservatorships, which are often stressful, costly, and emotionally taxing. With a plan in place, families can focus on care, connection, and meaningful moments together.
Key Tools for Alzheimer’s and Incapacity Planning
- Powers of Attorney
A durable power of attorney allows a trusted agent to manage finances if incapacity occurs, including banking, investments, and property management. - Advance Health Care Directives
These documents allow a designated agent to make medical decisions and allow individuals to outline treatment preferences so care aligns with their values. - Revocable Living Trusts
A trust provides a framework for asset management and decision-making, helps avoid probate, and protects privacy. - HIPAA Authorizations
HIPPA Authorizations allow designated individuals to access medical information, ensuring care is coordinated and decisions are informed.
Protecting Families and Reducing Stress
Planning early is about more than documents. It reduces uncertainty, preserves family harmony, and creates space for meaningful moments. With clear guidance in place, families can focus on supporting each other, instead of navigating court procedures or financial uncertainty. Conversations about values, healthcare choices, and financial priorities strengthen bonds and ensure wishes are honored.
Walk4ALZ: Taking Action in Orange County
Every March, the Law Stein Anderson team joins Walk4ALZ, bringing together colleagues, friends, and family to support residents in Orange County living with memory loss. Alzheimer’s Orange County has provided care, support, and resources for over 40 years, offering services such as a free helpline, care consultations, support groups, community classes, adult day services, early-stage support, and programs promoting socialization and brain health.
Bring a team to walk on March 14th or donate directly to the Law Stein Anderson Walk4ALZ team page. Every step and contribution helps provide care, resources, and hope to families affected by Alzheimer’s. While estate planning can protect your loved ones’ future, supporting Walk4ALZ Orange County strengthens the community, empowers families, and ensures no one faces memory loss alone.
Meet Kianna C. Parviz, Esq.
Senior Associate, Law Stein Anderson, LLP
Kianna Parviz is a senior associate with Law Stein Anderson, LLP practicing trust, estate, and probate litigation, as well as business and general civil disputes. From will contests and breach of fiduciary duty claims to business conflicts and personal injury matters, Kianna identifies her client’s objectives, develops a strategic path forward, and advocates tenaciously to achieve meaningful resolution.