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Author: Home Helpers Martinsburg

Caring for a senior with dementia presents numerous challenges, and managing their finances is among the most critical. As cognitive abilities decline, seniors may struggle with tasks like paying bills, managing investments, or avoiding financial scams. Implementing effective financial management strategies is essential to protect their assets and ensure their well-being.

If you have a loved one in Martinsburg, WV, or the surrounding areas, there are local resources available to help navigate financial planning and legal considerations specific to seniors with dementia.

1. Start the Conversation Early

As soon as a dementia diagnosis is confirmed, it's important to discuss financial planning. West Virginia’s Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) provides elder support services, including financial and legal planning resources. Encouraging seniors to share their financial information early can help prevent crises down the line.

Local Tip: Martinsburg families can connect with the Berkeley County Senior Center for workshops on financial and long-term care planning.

Berkeley Senior Services
217 N High St, Martinsburg, WV 25404
Website | Phone: (304) 263-8873

2. Organize Financial Documents

Gather important documents, such as:

• Bank statements
• Investment records
• Insurance policies
• Wills and power of attorney (POA) documents

Keep these documents in a secure location where a trusted family member or caregiver can access them if needed. For families in Martinsburg, consider consulting a local elder law attorney to ensure all paperwork is legally sound.

Local Resources:
Sardelis & Bowditch, PLLC – Estate Planning & Elder Law Attorneys
126 E Burke St, Martinsburg, WV 25401 | Phone: (304) 263-0091

West Virginia Senior Legal Aid – Provides free legal services for eligible seniors
wvseniors.org | Phone: 1-800-229-5068

3. Establish Legal Authority with a Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)

A DPOA allows a trusted individual to manage the senior’s finances once they are no longer able to do so. Without this, family members may face legal barriers when trying to pay bills or access accounts.

Local Tip: West Virginia law requires POA documents to be notarized. You can visit Berkeley County Clerk’s Office for notarization.

Berkeley County Clerk's Office
100 W King St, Martinsburg, WV 25401 | Phone: (304) 264-1927

4. Simplify Banking & Protect Against Scams

Many seniors with dementia become prime targets for financial scams, including fraudulent phone calls and deceptive mail solicitations. Berkeley County’s Sheriff’s Department offers community programs to help prevent elder fraud.

Steps to Take:

• Set up automatic bill payments to prevent missed payments
• Enroll in West Virginia’s Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing scams
• Add a trusted family member as a co-signer on accounts (if appropriate)

Local Resource:
Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office – Financial Fraud & Elder Protection
510 S Raleigh St, Martinsburg, WV 25401 | Phone: (304) 267-7000

5. Plan for Long-Term Care Costs in West Virginia

As dementia progresses, professional in-home care or assisted living may become necessary. The cost of long-term care can be significant, but West Virginia offers Medicaid waiver programs for seniors.

Options for Financial Assistance:

• WV Medicaid Aged & Disabled Waiver – Helps cover in-home care for eligible seniors
• Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits – Available for wartime veterans needing assistance with daily activities (We can screen you for that.)

For personalized guidance, Martinsburg families can visit:

WV Bureau of Senior Services – Martinsburg Office
2000 Foundation Way, Martinsburg, WV 25401 | Phone: (304) 264-7131

6. Work With Local Financial & Legal Experts

Consulting a local financial planner or elder law attorney can ensure that your loved one’s assets are protected and that long-term care is financially manageable.

Trusted Financial & Legal Experts in Martinsburg

Equitable Advisors – Martinsburg Office
2279 Winchester Ave, Martinsburg, WV 25405
Phone: (681) 260-2958
Website

West Virginia Legal Aid – Martinsburg Office
209 W King St, Martinsburg, WV 25401 | Phone: (866) 255-4370

7. Keep Communication Open & Reevaluate Plans

Regular family meetings ensure everyone remains informed about financial decisions. As dementia progresses, financial strategies may need to be adjusted.

Local Tip: Attend caregiver support groups at Hospice of the Panhandle or Alzheimer’s Association WV Chapter for financial planning insights.

Hospice of the Panhandle – Martinsburg Office
330 Hospice Ln, Kearneysville, WV 25430 | Phone: (304) 264-0406

Alzheimer’s Association – WV Chapter
alz.org/wv | Phone: (304) 343-2717

Final Thoughts

Managing finances for a senior with dementia in Martinsburg, WV, requires early planning, strong legal protections, and trusted local resources. With the right support, families can navigate financial decisions while ensuring their loved one’s well-being.

Have Questions? Contact Home Helpers Home Care of Martinsburg at (304) 433-8000 to discuss financial planning for dementia care.