Many people mistakenly believe that elder law only refers to the estate planning process. In actuality, elder law can also cover many other issues that people face as they get older. An elder law attorney can help with all of these issues and give you and your family piece of mind.
Estate Planning for Elders
While elder law covers more than just estate planning, estate planning is important for everyone, particularly older adults. Estate planning allows you to make a plan to decide what happens to your assets when you pass away. Many estate plans allow you to make changes as needed, and allow you to appoint someone to manage your finances and health if you become unable to do so. Estate plans often include:
- Wills
- Advance Directives
- Revocable life trusts
- Guardianship decisions
Medicare and Medicaid
Adults over the age of 65 often enroll in Medicare, a federal health insurance program. The different parts of Medicare cover different aspects of your health care and it can be difficult what is covered and what is not. Many people file a claim for benefits only to be denied and have to file an appeal. An attorney may be able to help you throughout the claim filing and appeal process.
Medicaid is another federal healthcare program, generally providing benefits and custodial care for lower-income adults. An attorney can help you apply for these benefits, and help make sure that you can provide your surviving family members while still receiving benefits.
Long-Term Care
While we would all like to keep our independence forever, that may not be possible for everyone. Many elder people and people with disabilities may require long-term care and have to stay in an assisted living facility or nursing home. Elderly and disabled persons may receive long-term care provided by the ALTCS if they qualify based on medical need, income, and resources available to them.
Elder law attorneys can help you get your matters in order as soon as possible to ensure that you and your family are prepared for the future.