Shannon Pawley, The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm Owner, writes about the importance of planning for the future at the earliest signs of cognitive decline.

DECATUR, GA, December 20, 2025: Shannon Pawley, Owner of The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm, has posted a new blog on the law firm’s website entitled “The First Signs of Cognitive Decline: When Families Should Start Dementia Care Planning,” in which Ms. Pawley helps readers know what to look for and understand when to act.

Pawley writes, “Recognizing the early signs of cognitive decline can be unsettling for both the individual and their loved ones. However,” she continues, “acknowledging early symptoms presents a crucial window of opportunity—one in which families can begin planning for future care needs while their loved one is still able to participate in making meaningful decisions.”

“Knowing what to look for,” Pawley says, “and understanding when to act can make the journey ahead more manageable and compassionate.” Pawley states,  “I have first-hand experience living with a loved one who has had dementia for many years. I hope to impress upon you the importance of identifying signs early and taking appropriate action at the first signs.”

According to Pawley, “Cognitive decline typically begins subtly.” She goes on, “Family members may notice small changes long before those affected acknowledge them. Early signs can include increased forgetfulness.” Pawley acknowledges that, “We all put our glasses, car keys and phones down and forget where we put them. But more indicative of cognitive decline is when forgetfulness includes missing appointments or forgetting to take medications.” She adds, “Difficulty following conversations, processing new information, or managing familiar tasks like cooking are also behaviors that indicate cognitive decline.”

As Pawley states, “Dementia care planning is important for anticipating future medical needs. But even more importantly, it’s about honoring your loved one’s autonomy. When planning begins early, your loved one can articulate their preferences regarding living arrangements, medical care, finances, and end-of-life wishes.” Pawley emphasizes, “A proactive approach reduces uncertainty and conflict when decision-making may become more challenging and emotionally charged.”

Pawley also acknowledges that, “Early planning also allows families to explore resources and support systems before a crisis occurs. Learning about options such as in-home care, adult day programs, respite services, or memory care communities gives families time to evaluate what will best suit their needs. Additionally, addressing legal and financial considerations—such as powers of attorney, advanced directives, and long-term care insurance—becomes far more manageable when the person living with cognitive decline is still fully able to participate.”

The entire blog can be read here: The First Signs of Cognitive Decline: When Families Should Start Dementia Care Planning

About The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm

The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm was established to serve the legal needs of retiring citizens. The Firm focuses its entire practice on providing strategies to protect independence, privacy, assets and taxes from the government. Shannon Pawley has grown her law practice by providing excellent customer satisfaction with personalized wealth protection plans.

About Shannon M. Pawley, J.D., LL.M

Shannon is the Owner and CEO of The Estate & Asset Protection Law Firm. Originally from the Tidewater area of Virginia, she grew up in a close-knit family with a strong tradition of military service. She learned early on the importance of integrity, hard work, and giving back to her community. Her upbringing shaped her desire to make a positive impact and instilled a deep sense of responsibility to ensure that every individual is treated with respect and care.

Her passion for serving others took root during her junior year of high school, when she served as a U.S. House of Representatives Page during the 101st Congressional Session in Washington, D.C. This life-changing experience opened her eyes to the power of diverse perspectives and the importance of advocating for those whose voices are often unheard. Inspired by the experience, Shannon decided to pursue a career in law, dedicated to guiding others through life’s most challenging moments.

Shannon’s educational journey led her to North Carolina Wesleyan College, where she earned her undergraduate degree, followed by a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law. She then specialized further, obtaining an LL.M. in Taxation from Wayne State University. Licensed to practice in both Michigan and Georgia, Shannon is also a VA Accredited Attorney, making her a formidable advocate for her clients.

Throughout her career, Shannon has been a fierce champion for clients from all walks of life, representing everyone from international corporations to single parents. She has always been driven by a profound belief that everyone deserves to have their rights and wishes honored, especially when they are most vulnerable. Whether advocating in the courtroom or guiding families through complex legal decisions, Shannon’s mission is clear: to protect the dignity and independence of every client she serves.

Her passion for advocacy goes beyond legal representation—it’s about ensuring that people’s voices are heard, even when they may not be able to speak for themselves. Shannon is deeply committed to helping her clients age with dignity, grace, and independence, working tirelessly to prepare them and their families for the complexities of aging. Her work is more than a profession; it is a calling to serve, empower, and uplift every individual and family she has the privilege to represent.