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Advising Through Cognitive Decline: Practical Guidance for Financial Professionals

Topic

General Principles of Financial Planning

Program ID

345237

Hours

1

Format

Live / Stand-alone Workshop or Seminar

Complexity

Intermediate

Description

Financial advisors increasingly serve aging clients who may experience cognitive decline—often subtly, sometimes suddenly. This session provides a multidisciplinary perspective on how advisors can recognize potential warning signs, respond appropriately, and navigate the ethical and regulatory complexities surrounding diminished capacity. Through expert insights and practical case discussion, advisors will learn how to protect client well-being, maintain professionalism, and access resources to better support clients and families when cognitive challenges arise.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify observable indicators of potential cognitive decline during client interactions and financial planning discussions. 2. Apply appropriate documentation and communication strategies when diminished capacity is suspected. 3. Determine when and how to involve trusted contacts, family members, or external professionals while upholding ethical obligations and regulatory standards. 4. Explain the financial advisor’s ethical and legal responsibilities when cognitive decline may impact client decision-making. 5. Utilize professional and community resources to better support clients experiencing cognitive decline.