Caring for Seniors with the Aid of an Elder Law Attorney
A significant increase in the older population has been seen in recent years and is expected to continue. Based on this forecast, the emergence of new legal issues for seniors and caregivers is likely to be expected.
If you reside with your grandparents, parents, or someone else who is in their senior years, taking a look at “elder law” can benefit you. But, you might need the help of an attorney who specializes in elder law since this area is still fairly new. Find out how an elder law attorney can assist you and your elderly loved ones.
When Is the Help of an Elder Law Attorney Needed?
The protection of the legal rights of your loved ones who are elderly is becoming more important as they age. Seniors can protect their security when they get older with the help of an elder lawyer and thorough preparation ahead. If you’re not sure if you require the assistance of an attorney, here are scenarios where you could benefit by working with an attorney for elder law.
1. Long-Term Care Planning
The majority of seniors require help in performing everyday tasks, which is why some turn to nursing homes. Unfortunately, long-term care (LTC) is costly and many are forced to use Medicaid to get help.
If you’ve not thought of and integrated Medicaid planning into your estate plan and you are not eligible for Medicaid, it could put your assets in danger. To improve your chances of being eligible for Medicaid, it is best to seek advice from medicare lawyers for the most effective approach.
2. Incapacity Planning
If you’re an older person, you must add incapacity planning into your will in order to make sure your wishes are fulfilled if you become unable to communicate due to reasons such as being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Living trusts, durable powers of attorney, as well as “living wills” are common tools used by a South Florida elder law attorney to transfer authority over finances, medical treatment, and other issues in the event of incapacity or death. Since a judge can choose a person to take on the responsibilities of a living trust if there’s no plan in place, it is good to have a plan that is backed by guidance from an attorney for elder law.
3. Estate Planning
Elder law attorneys use trusts as well as wills and other documents for estate planning to help clients manage their estates. With a plan, senior citizens can also determine how the person who receives an inheritance could use it in the event that they have special needs, are dependent, or are having trouble with creditors.
Also, keep in mind that your loved ones with special needs may be disqualified from their government benefits once they receive an inheritance. Go here to consult with a special needs trust lawyer that can help you avoid that from happening.
4. Guardianship
You might consider requesting guardianship in the event that you are concerned that an elderly relative is unable to take care of themselves and manage their finances.
Guardianship procedures for seniors or disabled person who is unable to not make decisions on their own are handled by lawyers who specialize in elder law. They are advocates for the families of those who have requested guardianship. Therefore, working with an expert will help create a safer and more comfortable future for your loved ones.
5. Elder Abuse
The abuse of elderly people is a common social problem and can manifest in a variety of ways. Physical abuse is often the first thought that pops into your mind; however, financial abuse can cost seniors a significant amount of money each year.
If you suspect something related to this, it’s recommended to consult an attorney to ensure that the rights and security of your loved ones are protected.
