What do you do when an older client begins to phone you repeatedly, asking over and over for information that she has already heard?
In Bethesda, Maryland, the Family Firm requests that older clients think about whom they would trust with decision-making if their mental acuity should begin to diminish. Financial planner Donald Lord and his colleagues phrase this question delicately, and clients usually respond by designating a child, other relative, close friend, or professional advisor as their advocate. Their choice is confirmed in a signed agreement. If need be, this individual will be consulted by the Family Firm to help make important financial and other life decisions for the client in question.
