In yet another example of how mental disease can affect even the most vibrant of elders, the Rhinestone Cowboy, Mr. Glen Campbell, recently revealed the sad news that he is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
The 75-year-old musician, actor and TV personality announced with his wife Kim that he had been suffering from short-term memory loss for years, but the Alzheimer’s diagnosis only came six months ago.
The impetus for his announcement was a series of farewell concerts he has planned for the fall. He wanted his fans to be aware of his condition in case if affects his performance.
During his illustrious career, Campbell was personally chosen by John Wayne to play the Texas ranger helping Wayne’s character Rooster Coburn in the 1969 Oscar winning film True Grit, earning him a Golden Globe nomination for most promising actor. Campbell was also a member of the infamous session musician collective known as the Wrecking Crew and joined the Beach Boys for a time, playing guitar on their classic album Pet Sounds.
When a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is usually an unavoidable consequence that they will require professional long-term care. Planning ahead for the staggering costs associated with nursing homes can help your family preserve its financial integrity during a very trying time. Estate planning, including planning ahead for MassHealth eligibility, can be of paramount importance if you suspect a loved one is suffering from early Alzheimer’s symptoms.
