Many elderly persons rely entirely on their children, family members or other trusted individuals to help them. This dependence makes an older person more vulnerable to abuse and financial exploitation. Legal arrangements and protective actions by family may be necessary to shield loved ones from making bad decisions or from being taken advantage of.
All too often, we hear about the sudden illness or passing of a family member. Without taking the proper steps to ensure that your future is protected, your family can be left in turmoil without knowing your final wishes. By speaking with an experienced elder law attorney, you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you have created a plan that provides for your family when you pass away.
Hiring an elder law attorney is an important decision. Having legal documentation about property, finances, powers of attorney, and final wishes is important as you or your loved one enter your final years. When you make the decision to hire the right elder law attorney, you will save valuable time, money, and energy.
Although it’s important to protect your assets, it’s only one aspect of estate planning. Because Medicare will not pay for long term nursing home care, many people feel that they need to deplete their assets in order to qualify for Medicaid coverage. Learn more about creating a trust, which in some cases can help you protect your assets and qualify for Medicaid benefits.