Federal judges are appointed for life. Sometimes, age-related mental decline can go unnoticed or unaddressed, and loved ones or colleagues find themselves in the difficult position to act upon a perceived impairment. But the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is taking proactive steps to address age-related mental decline on the bench. In order to increase awareness and proper planning, the Circuit Court has set up a hotline that judges and staff can call for advice on recognizing and dealing with cognitive decline. It holds seminars to teach the chief judges about the signs of impairment, and encourages judges to undergo assessments and designate someone who can intervene in the event there is concern.
Read more in the Associated Press article, “9th Circuit Addresses Senility Among Federal Judges Head On.”
